The Montreal Canadiens are currently navigating a challenging road trip in California, with games scheduled against the Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim Ducks, and San Jose Sharks. Their opening match against the Sharks turned into a defensive nightmare, culminating in a 7-5 defeat. Despite this setback, the Canadiens showcased some offensive sparks that could hint at brighter days ahead.
Rookies Shine Amid Defensive Chaos
Two rookies stood out offensively for Montreal in the high-scoring affair. Oliver Kapanen netted his 19th goal of the season, solidifying his position as a standout rookie in a year where expectations were modest. Kapanen’s tally puts him just behind fellow rookie Matthew Schaefer, who leads with 20 goals.
Ivan Demidov’s struggles have been a surprise to many, as he has been unable to find the net consistently, managing only two goals in his last 21 games. However, he did break his slump with a power-play goal against San Jose, taking advantage of a pass from Lane Hutson. This effort reduced the Sharks’ lead to 5-3 and sparked a brief comeback attempt from the Canadiens.
Meanwhile, Alex Newhook has made a remarkable return from a fractured ankle, contributing at least a point in all three games since his comeback. He scored twice against the Sharks, demonstrating that he hasn’t missed a beat. His performance is particularly impressive, considering he has recorded eight goals in just 20 games this season, putting him on pace for a potential 32-goal campaign if he maintains his health.
A Glimmer of Hope in a Tough Loss
Despite the loss, the Canadiens fought back valiantly, managing to equalise the score at five after a three-goal third period. This resilience is commendable, especially given their situation late in the game. Montreal pressed hard in the Sharks’ zone during the final minutes with their goalie pulled, yet they couldn’t find the equaliser.
The effort displayed by the players, particularly when facing a three-goal deficit, is indicative of their belief in the team’s potential. However, as head coach Martin St. Louis prepares for the next game in Anaheim, he is likely concerned about the defensive lapses that have plagued the team.
Concerns Mount Ahead of Trade Deadline
The Canadiens’ defensive woes have become a pressing issue. Phillip Danault, who was brought in to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities, has performed well in face-offs but has struggled to contain opposing players effectively. His line, which includes Josh Anderson and Brendan Gallagher, has faced difficulty in maintaining possession and keeping the opposition at bay.
Danault’s offensive contributions have been noteworthy, with four goals in 24 games since joining Montreal, a stark contrast to his lack of production with the Los Angeles Kings. However, the defensive breakdowns, such as the costly errors leading to Michael Misa’s game-tying goal, highlight the need for improvement.
As the trade deadline approaches, general manager Kent Hughes faces critical decisions regarding the roster. Players secure in their roles may welcome reinforcements for a playoff push, while those on the fringes may fear new arrivals threatening their positions.
The latest rumours suggest the St. Louis Blues are seeking a hefty price for player Robert Thomas, which may be unrealistic given his recent performance. Hughes must weigh the potential benefits of acquiring a right-shot defenceman against the cost of disrupting team chemistry.
Why it Matters
The Canadiens’ ongoing struggles highlight the complexities of a rebuilding team navigating the treacherous waters of the NHL trade landscape. With defensive weaknesses evident, the team’s performance in the coming games will be crucial for maintaining momentum and morale. As the trade deadline looms, the decisions made by management could significantly impact the squad’s future, potentially altering the trajectory of their season.
