Roustan once eyed the Canadiens as a potential acquisition, tying a storied franchise to Canada’s wooden-stick heritage. The team’s legacy anchors the narrative of Canadian manufacturing resilience amid global competition and the NHL’s evolving gear landscape.

Montreal enters with high expectations, driven by Demidov, Lane Hudson, and Slavkovski’s growth. They’re watched as playoff contenders in a tough Atlantic, with second-line center questions defining ceiling. The core looks promising, but the path to consistent success remains a work in progress.

Suzuki anchors Montreal’s attack with Caufield as Hudson’s deal shapes the team’s ceilings; the Canadiens’ cap and depth decisions loom large for fantasy rosters.

Caufield sits at the center of Montreal’s scoring loom with Suzuki, as Hudson’s negotiations ripple into how the Canadiens construct their top six and their payroll.

Montreal’s mix of Suzuki leadership and Montembeault in goal builds a hopeful floor; Dobson and Bolduc additions bring upside on defense and depth. Montreal’s ascent could hinge on Demidov and Montembeault delivering beyond expectations.