Montreal Canadiens Aim to End Rebuild with 2024-25 Playoff Push

After three years out of the playoffs, the Canadiens are optimistic about their young core and new additions despite challenges ahead.

Captain Nick Suzuki expresses determination to avoid being trade deadline sellers and make the playoffs this season.
The Canadiens finished 28th last season, 15 points shy of a playoff spot, in a competitive Atlantic Division.
Excitement was tempered by a knee injury to new acquisition Patrik Laine, expected to sideline him for 2-3 months.
Young talents like Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky are expected to lead the team, supported by rookie Lane Hutson.
Sam Montembeault is set as the starting goalie, with the team locking up key players Slafkovsky and Kaiden Guhle to long-term deals.