In a recent interview with Eric Engels of Sportsnet, Montreal Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes made a few comments that shouldn’t go unnoticed. In the NHL, it’s not always about what an executive says—it’s how he says it that matters.
For those paying attention, Hughes subtly signalled that the Canadiens are ready to push their competitive window wide open:
“We’d be remiss if we missed the window while we have an elite two-way centreman like Nick Suzuki driving our team.”
This marks a clear shift from the messaging we’ve heard in the past. Since the beginning of the rebuild, Hughes and VP of Hockey Operations Jeff Gorton have consistently emphasized patience, refusing to mortgage the future for short-term gains.
Another key remark from Hughes reinforces that change in approach:
“We’re not going to go into free agency like a bunch of drunken sailors and get stuck with eight-year deals that we wish we could get out of the minute we get into them,” he said. “But I think we’re probably closer to overpaying in terms of what we give up in assets to acquire a player.”
That statement suggests that while free agency may be on their radar, their primary focus remains on strengthening the roster through trades.
Former GM Marc Bergevin often warned that the worst mistakes are made around July 1st, the opening of free agency. Hughes—who, as a former player agent, has firsthand experience negotiating those very contracts—seems to share that belief.
Now, the approach has shifted. With Suzuki entering his prime, Cole Caufield finding consistency in his offensive game, and young talent making an impact, the Canadiens are looking to take the next step. The progression from rebuilding to learning to win, to being in the mix, is now evolving into a push for true contention.
And as Hughes hinted, the path forward isn’t through reckless free-agent spending but through targeted trades—potentially even overpaying—to acquire the right pieces.
Bo Horvat last night against the #Habs:21:38 TOI2 goals+2 5 shots3 hits57.9% FO#GoHabsGo
— JD Lagrange (@jdlagrange.bsky.social) 2025-03-21T11:53:55.136Z
The rise of the Canadiens’ prospect pool has been well documented, with young players on entry-level deals providing both talent and financial flexibility. This will be crucial as the team starts adding established impact players to accelerate their push.
For now, fans should enjoy the ride. The players certainly are. So is the coaching staff and management. And if the Canadiens secure a playoff spot, Geoff Molson will have even more reason to smile. But beyond the financial gains, the young core is gaining invaluable experience, learning not just how to win but what it takes to reach the next level.
Listening to management and reading between the lines, this summer appears to be when the Canadiens plan to take the next big step. No longer just aiming to be in the mix, they’re looking to make a real playoff push. The future is bright in Montreal.
