Habs’ First 25 Games Reveal Youth, Talent, and Growing Pains
Looking at the first 25 games of the Montreal Canadiens this season, it’s clear that we’re watching a team in the middle of a learning curve. The last five games, in particular, have showcased both the highs and lows of this young roster. On one hand, they’ve shown flashes of brilliance against teams like the Maple Leafs and the Golden Knights. On the other hand, games against the Avalanche and Senators exposed inexperience and defensive lapses. In this span, the Canadiens collected six points out of a possible ten. That’s 0.600 hockey—enough to keep playoff hopes alive, but it also highlights the inconsistency that comes with youth.
Statistically, the team’s numbers are a mixed bag. Their PDO sits in a decent range, faceoff percentages are average, and their combined power play and penalty kill rates are 102%, ranking 13th in the league. Where the team really struggles is in save percentage, which is among the worst in the NHL, with only Edmonton and Nashville performing worse. Advanced stats from NHL Edge indicate that the Habs continue to spend more time in the defensive zone than most teams and don’t generate a ton of shots. Still, they’ve leaned on their accuracy, leading the league in shooting percentage at 13.6%.
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Goalies Jake Allen and Sam Montembeault have delivered respectable outings in Utah and Vegas, so the defensive struggles aren’t entirely on them. The data suggest that spectacular goaltending, like the team relied on last season, can’t be counted on this year. Average-to-below-average goaltending has exposed gaps in the defensive structure, which, frustrating as it is to watch, could ultimately benefit the team by forcing defensive improvement.
Coach Martin St-Louis has been vocal about the team not meeting its “standards,” acknowledging that defensive missteps against Colorado were partly on him. His strategy involved clogging the neutral zone, similar to the old New Jersey trap system, but modern rules have made this approach less effective. Today’s fast teams, like the Avalanche, can exploit gaps at the blue line, forcing defenders to retreat and leave open space in the high slot. The Canadiens’ preferred system relies on speed, aggressive forechecking, and balance, but it demands perfect positioning and anticipation from all five players—a challenge for such a young roster.
Experience is key for the Canadiens, who regularly dress six rookies and have a lower-than-average team age. The recent addition of Alexandre Texier adds some stability, but the team remains in a developmental phase. Their talent is helping them win more games than they lose, offering a glimpse of the potential they hold. These growing pains are shaping a team that, with patience from management, could become one of the most feared rosters in the league. So far, GM Kent Hughes and President Geoff Molson have shown no rush to make drastic moves, indicating faith in the process.
In short, the first 25 games have been a fascinating mix of youthful energy, talent-driven success, and defensive lessons that are shaping the future of the Montreal Canadiens.
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