The Montreal Canadiens are on a challenging road trip in California, having recently faced off against the San Jose Sharks, Los Angeles Kings, and Anaheim Ducks. Their encounter with the Sharks was particularly troublesome, resulting in a 7-5 defeat that highlighted defensive lapses. However, amid this setback, the Canadiens showcased some promising offensive performances from their rookies.
A Rough Start in San Jose
The Canadiens’ first game of their Californian tour proved to be a defensive nightmare. The Sharks exploited gaps in Montreal’s defence, scoring seven times and outpacing the Canadiens, who managed five goals of their own. Despite the loss, there were moments of brilliance from Montreal’s younger players.
Oliver Kapanen, a rookie sensation, notched his 19th goal of the season, standing just behind teammate Matthew Schaefer, who leads with 20. Kapanen’s scoring prowess has been a pleasant surprise for the team, especially given the expectations surrounding his rookie campaign.
Ivan Demidov Breaks His Slump
In a surprising twist, Ivan Demidov—previously regarded as the leading rookie—has struggled recently, netting only two goals in his last 21 outings. Nonetheless, he managed to find the back of the net against the Sharks, scoring with a powerful slap shot during a power play, which briefly narrowed San Jose’s lead to 5-3. This goal came as a welcome relief for Demidov, who has been working diligently to refine his one-timer.
Meanwhile, Alex Newhook, returning from a fractured ankle, has shown no signs of rust, contributing significantly with two goals in the match. His first came from a precise shot to the top corner, while the second was a clever bank shot from the corner. Newhook’s return adds depth to the Canadiens’ offensive lines, and he now boasts eight goals in just 20 games, projecting a potential 32-goal season if he maintains his current pace.
Defensive Concerns Loom
While the offensive output has been commendable, the Canadiens’ defensive strategy remains a pressing issue. The line led by Phillip Danault—expected to neutralise opposing teams—has struggled to perform defensively. Despite an impressive faceoff percentage of 58% since joining from the Los Angeles Kings, Danault’s efforts to bolster the defence have not yielded expected results.
In several instances, including the game-tying goal by Michael Misa, Danault’s attempts to clear the puck have been ineffective, leading to further scoring opportunities for the opposition. The challenges faced by this line are reflected in their Corsi ratings, which have been alarming since the Olympic break.
Head coach Martin St. Louis will likely be keen to address these defensive shortcomings ahead of their next game against Anaheim, as the team seeks a more disciplined performance.
Trade Deadline Considerations
As the trading deadline approaches, the Canadiens find themselves at a crossroads. Players in secure positions may welcome additional talent to bolster their playoff aspirations, while those on the cusp fear for their jobs. Speculation surrounds potential trades, with whispers that the St. Louis Blues might demand exorbitant assets for Robert Thomas, a rumour that seems more sensational than substantive at this stage.
General managers often use the rumour mill to test the waters, and players are left to navigate the uncertainty that comes with such speculation. Canadiens’ GM Kent Hughes will need to carefully assess the market for a right-shot defender capable of enhancing the squad, especially as the team grapples with its current defensive woes.
Why it Matters
The Canadiens’ performance during this critical period is vital not only for their immediate standing in the league but also for the overall morale of the team as they look toward the future. With young talents like Kapanen and Newhook stepping up, there is hope for a brighter outlook. However, addressing defensive frailties is essential if the Canadiens wish to make a meaningful impact this season. As the trade deadline approaches, the decisions made in the coming days could shape the trajectory of Montreal’s campaign and its future ambitions in the NHL.
