Montreal Canadiens face a midseason reality check as rising stars shake up expectations—who’s earning top marks, and who needs to step up for a playoff push? Laura Saba dishes out report cards for every Canadiens player after 42 games, spotlighting standout performances from Lane Hutson, Ivan Demitov, Oliver Kapanen, and Juraj Slafkovsky—all earning high praise for their game-changing impacts. The breakdown covers Josh Anderson’s struggles, goaltending issues with Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobes, and the pressing need for improvement on special teams, especially the power play. Key discussions include the dynamic contributions of Mike Matheson and Noah Dobson, the challenges facing core players like Brendan Gallagher, and insights on injured stars’ return timelines.With trade rumors swirling and lineups evolving, can the Canadiens transform flashes of brilliance into playoff contention? Join Laura Saba for critical analysis, fan trivia, and what’s next for Montreal’s promising roster.

Montreal Canadiens shake up midseason expectations as Juraj Slafkovský and Oliver Kapanen emerge as breakout forces. Can this young core spark a late playoff push for the Habs? Laura Saba sits down with hockey TikToker David Landsman to spotlight the Canadiens’ most surprising performers, including Lane Hutson’s point-per-game pace and Kapanen’s veteran-like poise despite his rookie status. Key topics include reaction to the Olympic team rosters, the implications of Nick Suzuki’s and Alexandre Texier’s selections, and concerns over Team Canada’s goaltending. Laura Saba and David Landsman preview the upcoming matchups against the Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, and Detroit Red Wings, exploring special teams issues, home-ice challenges, and the evolving kid line chemistry. Don’t miss insider insights on how roster surprises and Olympic nods could shape the Canadiens’ second half.

Montreal Canadiens stun Dallas Stars with Lane Hutson’s electrifying overtime winner. Can this young roster maintain momentum in the season’s second half amid Olympic snubs and injuries? Laura Saba recaps the Canadiens’ gritty week, spotlighting Lane Hutson and Cole Caulfield’s Team USA omissions and what it means for their fire going forward. From Samuel Montembeault’s resurgence between the pipes to Nick Suzuki’s clutch leadership and Juraj Slavkovsky’s consistent impact, each game’s drama and turning points get a sharp breakdown. Insights include the team’s offensive surge, crucial power play improvements, and a look at recent defensive pairings as the Habs battle elite clubs like the Dallas Stars and Carolina Hurricanes. Plus, can Cole Caufield use Olympic disappointment as fuel for a 40-goal campaign? Don’t miss this high-energy analysis of the Montreal Canadiens’ evolving lineup, rising stars, and the quest to upset NHL powerhouses.

Montreal Canadiens outscore their defensive woes in a chaotic win over the Carolina Hurricanes—can this youthful roster sustain the momentum? Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert break down the Habs’ wild offensive surge, the glaring absence of Mike Matheson on the blue line, and why Lane Hutson’s rapid development is surprising everyone. Discussion spotlights Juraj Slafkovsky’s growing chemistry with Demidov, the impact of Alex Texier and Joe Veleno in key roles, and how Jakob Dobes’s goaltending raises tough questions. Key topics include the Canadiens’ special teams struggles, waiver-wire revenge storylines with Samuel Blais, and what recent AHL conditioning options could signal for injured stars like Kirby Dach and Kaiden Guhle. The hosts tackle fan mailbag questions on trade targets, long-term lineup projections, and Lane Hutson’s ceiling as a future top-five NHL defenseman. Don’t miss this energetic analysis of Montreal’s evolving strategy and playoff ambitions.

The Montreal Canadiens are not out of any game they play. Down 2-0 in Florida with under five minutes to go, the Canadiens found a way to grab both points. Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down yet another incredible late comeback by the Habs. This time, it was captain Nick Suzuki leading the way with the tying goal and the overtime winner. Plus, we got to see Brad Marchand completely blow it for his team on a selfish, stupid hit. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Plus Sam Montembeault was strong in his return. What does that do for the Habs goaltending situation in the short and long term? And finally, with 2025 coming to a close, we reflect on the year that was for the Canadiens and what they have ahead of themselves in 2026.

Did Fanatics just leak Nick Suzuki’s spot on Team Canada’s Olympic roster? The Montreal Canadiens captain’s Olympic hopes take center stage, stirring debate among fans about whether a star Habs player should chase national glory or focus on the NHL grind. Is Suzuki best suited for fourth-line shutdown duty or will he surprise critics with an impact performance on the world stage? Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert break down the Canadiens’ jam-packed four-game week, analyze Samuel Montembeault’s return in goal, and weigh the team’s playoff odds with matchups against the Panthers, Hurricanes, Blues, and Stars. Plus, excitement builds around prospect Michael Hage’s breakout at the World Juniors—is he the future star the Habs need? Hear sharp insights, lively banter, and the latest on Canadiens roster strategy, lineup concerns, and key points the team must clinch to stay in the race.

The Montreal Canadiens trailed 3-0 in the third period on Sunday. Then Juraj Slafkovsky willed his team back into the hockey game. Ian Boisvert breaks down the Habs strong comeback in Tampa. Despite dropping the extra point in the shootout, Slafkovsky's three-point night gave Habs fans a reason to believe; not only in this team as it is constructed, but in this rebuild as a whole. Despite the success of Slafkovsky and his line, the first line has struggled. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield have not been a match with Zachary Bolduc, but with Kirby Dach on the mend, there may never be a better opportunity for Dach to carve out a role for himself with the Habs. And finally, Chris Johnston is predicting that the Habs may be interested in trading for Jonathan Marchessault out of Nashville before the trade deadline. Is there a fit for the home town scorer?

Montreal Canadiens eye blockbuster opportunities as fan mailbag sparks debate: should Kent Hughes target Tage Thompson, Jordan Kyrou, or Robert Thomas in a major trade? Questions swirl around Martin St. Louis’s future behind the bench—would the Habs fire their head coach for a shot at landing John Cooper? Laura Saba weighs the realities of coaching moves, trade rumors, and the injuries plaguing the Canadiens roster. Key topics include the value of Joshua Roy and Owen Beck, whether Juraj Slafkovský should shift to center, and the challenge of building a contending team amid league-wide injuries and goaltending woes. Hear bold takes on Pascal Vincent’s coaching trajectory, Montreal’s approach to player development, and creative hypotheticals like calling up coaches for a "cup of coffee" in the NHL. Will the Canadiens stick with their rebuild, or take a swing for a game-changing star?

The Habs snuck a trade under the wire before the holiday roster freeze and it is a significant one as Phillip Danault returns to Montreal. Ian Boisvert breaks down the trade that reunited Danault with the city he took to the Stanley Cup Final and how his defensive style is exactly what the Canadiens need right now. After playing back to back games against the Pens, Montreal grabs 3 of 4 points. This back to back was part of a pretty successful week for the Habs, even if the top line has some work to do.

What's behind the Montreal Canadiens' goaltending woes, and can Sam Montembeault rediscover his elite form? Goaltending coach Dylan Waugh joins Laura Saba to dissect the Habs’ struggles in net, exploring league-wide trends, misreads, and the evolving challenge shooters pose to NHL goalies. The conversation spotlights Montembeault’s confidence spiral, the perils and potential of sending him to Laval, and why play reading could be the missing link for his rebound. The episode also breaks down Jakub Dobeš’s strengths, rebound control concerns, and backup potential, while raising questions about Jacob Fowler’s development path as the next big hope in goal for Montreal. From goaltending techniques and defensive impacts to the subtle art of the poke check, Dylan Waugh offers insider insights on coaching, system rigidity, and what it takes for the Canadiens’ netminders to succeed in today’s fast-evolving NHL.

Montreal Canadiens dominate the Chicago Blackhawks while Lane Hutson dazzles on both sides of the ice. Has Martin St. Louis found the blueprint for his young core’s success? Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert break down the Habs’ commanding win, spotlighting Zachary Bolduc’s breakout game, Jakub Dobes’s resilience in net, and Joe Veleno proving his value at center. The hosts question Montreal’s hybrid defensive system—will a new approach unlock even greater potential? Discussion highlights include Lane Hutson’s dynamic playmaking and surprising defensive prowess, Juraj Slafkovsky’s physical presence, and the impact of veteran leadership. Plus, it’s a festive mailbag packed with holiday hijinks, gift-giving games, and candid takes on upcoming roster moves. Can the Canadiens maintain this level of intensity as challenges mount? Don’t miss this spirited analysis of Montreal’s prospects and the factors shaping their future in the NHL.

Montreal Canadiens fans seek perspective as Martin St. Louis faces scrutiny—does the right coach make all the difference in a turbulent Atlantic Division race? Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert examine why St. Louis remains the right leader for a young, inconsistent team, despite questionable decisions and mounting pressure. The hosts debunk “Marty’s favorites” myths, spotlight the locker room’s dynamic, and dissect how the Habs’ culture shift signals a turning point from past eras. Plus, the tight Atlantic Division standings mean every game counts—can the Canadiens keep pace with the likes of Tampa Bay, Boston, and Detroit while awaiting key returns from Kaden Guhle, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook? The episode also breaks down which players should “know better,” who’s developing fastest, and where the biggest growth is still to come. Don’t miss this spirited analysis of Montreal’s road ahead and St. Louis’ evolving legacy behind the bench.

Sam Montembeault is headed to Laval for a conditioning stint in the AHL. The Canadiens are hoping this short reset can change the course of his season. Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down the news of Montembeault's assignment to Laval for a conditioning stint. While it may only be two games, they might be all he needs find his game again. After winning on a strong defensive effort on Sunday, the Habs got a taste of their own medicine on Tuesday when the Flyers came to town. Still, two Habs stood out to Ian and Laura in this frustrating game. And finally, the Phil Danault file remains open as reports surface that the player has asked for a trade. Is Montreal a viable destination?

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Montreal Canadiens enter a critical stretch, facing the Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, and a back-to-back against the Pittsburgh Penguins. With Connor Bedard sidelined for Chicago and the Penguins spiraling, can the Canadiens capitalize on these winnable matchups—or will overlooked opponents cost them valuable points? The conversation centers on defensive strategies like unleashing Mike Matheson, the importance of taking every game seriously, and whether six or seven points this week is a realistic goal. Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert tackle the pressing dilemma surrounding goaltender Sam Montembeault’s struggles and fluctuating role as Jacob Fowler and Jakub Dobes step up. Is Montembeault’s future with Montreal in jeopardy? The hosts also react to front-office news: Buffalo Sabres’ hiring of Jarmo Kekalainen could reshape the Atlantic Division’s trade market, possibly ending Montreal’s chances at landing Tage Thompson. Stay tuned for insider analysis, trivia, and rapid-fire takes on roster dynamics that could decide the Canadiens’ playoff fate.

The Montreal Canadiens bounced back from a tough loss at MSG and play strong defense against the Oilers. Mike Matheson and Jakub Dobes led the way to another win. Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down the 3-point weekend for the Habs by showering praise on the play of two defensemen. Mike Matheson was glued to Connor McDavid on Sunday night and held him to one garbage time point. And Lane Hutson finished the week with three straight multi-point games. Who is standing in his way of a Norris trophy? And finally, when the Habs get healthy, who stays in the lineup?

Jacob Fowler shines in his NHL debut as the Montreal Canadiens topple the Pittsburgh Penguins, igniting hope for the Habs’ goaltending future. Can Fowler become the Canadiens’ long-awaited answer between the pipes, following in the footsteps of Carey Price and Patrick Roy? Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert break down Fowler’s calm, starter-like performance and how his confidence transformed Montreal’s approach against a powerhouse Penguins lineup led by Crosby, Letang, and Karlsson. The hosts tackle pressing mailbag questions, including pulling the goalie strategy, which Canadiens players reflect their own personalities, and whether the solution to the Canadiens’ second-line center needs might already be on the roster with Oliver Kapanen. Lineup shuffles, defensive pair shakeups, and Lane Hutson’s stellar night come under the microscope, while Marty St. Louis’ resilience as head coach is explored. Can this youthful Habs group sustain its momentum and meet the city’s playoff expectations?

The Montreal Canadiens struggles in net have led them to turn to Jacob Fowler. Does he need to be a savior? Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba provide their insights into the call-up of prospect goaltender Jacob Fowler as the Habs goaltending hits rock bottom. Should we worry the Canadiens are repeating the mistakes of the past? Or can this be different? Owen Beck and Adam Engström also return to the Habs lineup. Can Beck replace Jake Evans' impact? Can Engström earn more minutes? And finally, Marty St. Louis says the Habs are not acting out of desperation and they have a plan. What is that plan?

NOTE: JACOB FOWLER CALL UP NEWS BREAKS IN THE THIRD SEGMENT. Montreal Canadiens suffer a tough loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning as goaltending woes reach a boiling point. Can the addition of Jacob Fowler spark a turnaround and restore hope for fans? Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert confront the disappointing performances of Samuel Montembeault and Cayden Primeau, questioning whether team defense or morale issues compound the crisis. With young stars like Juraj Slafkovsky and Oliver Kapanen showing promise, what will it take for the Canadiens to find their killer instinct and bounce back? Key topics include the impact of injuries to Kaiden Guhle, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook, defensive breakdowns, and the need for renewed team mentality. The hosts spotlight Fowler’s surprise call-up alongside Owen Beck and Adam Engstrom, debate potential goalie moves, and highlight Marty St. Louis’ latest approach to building long-term character. Can the Canadiens overcome adversity and capitalize on their strengths before the season slips away?

With another packed schedule on the horizon, the Montreal Canadiens have a chance to take the lead in the division or fall out of the playoff picture for the time being. Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down yet another busy week for the Habs with four games on tap. Facing off against the top two powerplay units in the league, the Habs will need strong special teams to have a successful week. In Rumour Roundup, the LA Kings are reportedly taking calls on former Montreal Canadien Phillip Danault. Should the Habs be interested in bottom six centre, or is the cap hit too much to handle? And speaking of available centres, Ian and Laura revisit the concept of Brayden Schenn being a Habs trade target.