The Montreal Canadiens have been a symbol of tradition and excellence in the NHL for over a century. With 24 Stanley Cups, the Canadiens are among the most successful franchises in hockey history, and their passionate fanbase is constantly expecting greatness. Over the past several seasons, however, the team has faced struggles, including a lengthy rebuild after their unexpected 2021 Stanley Cup Final appearance. But in the 2023-2024 season, the Habs are showing that they are far from a rebuilding team — they’re a team on the rise.
One of the most exciting storylines this season has been the Canadiens’ hot streak. With a potent mix of young talent, improved team play, and an energized atmosphere, the Canadiens have shocked many by defeating three of the last four Stanley Cup champions — a feat that underscores their progress and ambition. These victories have not only provided fans with a sense of optimism but have also sent a strong message to the rest of the league: the Canadiens are back, and they’re capable of beating the best.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how Montreal has achieved such impressive wins, their growing momentum, and what it means for the team’s future in the NHL.
A Hot Start: The Canadiens’ Early-Season Surge
It’s been a season to remember for the Montreal Canadiens, one that has seen them climb the standings and knock off some of the league’s top teams. The most notable aspect of their hot streak has been their victories against the past three Stanley Cup winners, which have not only been crucial to their success but have provided a sense of validation for the team’s rebuild. The Canadiens’ recent wins have shown that they can compete with and beat the league’s elite, a sign that their youth movement and overall team play are progressing faster than expected.
In early November, Montreal faced off against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the 2020 Stanley Cup champions. The Canadiens came into the game energized and determined, taking advantage of Tampa Bay’s defensive lapses and scoring key goals at critical moments. Despite the Lightning’s experience and playoff pedigree, the Canadiens’ aggressive forecheck and fast-paced attack stifled Tampa Bay’s offensive rhythm. Key performances from young stars like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki were central to the Canadiens’ 4-2 victory. The win over Tampa Bay was a statement — Montreal was no longer a team to overlook.
Beating the Colorado Avalanche: The 2022 Champions
The Canadiens’ hot streak continued with an equally impressive win over the Colorado Avalanche, the 2022 Stanley Cup champions. Heading into the game, the Avalanche were widely regarded as one of the top teams in the league. They had just come off a dominant Cup run, with superstars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar leading the charge. However, the Canadiens’ relentless pressure and solid defensive play made it clear that they were up for the challenge.
The key to this victory was Montreal’s ability to slow down the Avalanche’s high-flying offense, which had been lighting up the scoreboard all season. Goaltender Jake Allen was outstanding between the pipes, making several crucial saves to keep the Canadiens in the game. The team’s defensive corps, led by the steady David Savard and emerging young players like Kaiden Guhle, played a pivotal role in limiting Colorado’s scoring chances. Meanwhile, the Habs’ forwards continued their solid play, with Suzuki and Caufield again proving to be a dynamic duo. Their ability to generate offensive chances and capitalize on power play opportunities was a difference-maker in the Canadiens’ 3-1 victory.
Beating Colorado was not only a huge win for Montreal but also a demonstration of their growth as a team. It showed that the Canadiens could take down one of the best in the business — and in dominant fashion. The win helped boost the team’s confidence and solidified their belief that they can hang with the league’s elite.
Taking Down the St. Louis Blues: 2019 Cup Champions
In another thrilling chapter of their hot streak, the Canadiens faced off against the St. Louis Blues, the 2019 Stanley Cup champions. St. Louis, led by head coach Craig Berube and star players like Ryan O’Reilly and Vladimir Tarasenko, was expected to be a tough opponent. The Blues had built a reputation for their strong, physical play and resilience, especially after their emotional Cup run in 2019.
But Montreal had other plans. The game against the Blues became another showcase of the Canadiens’ rapid development. Their fast pace, aggressive forecheck, and disciplined defensive structure were on full display, frustrating St. Louis at every turn. The Canadiens’ penalty kill was particularly impressive, shutting down the Blues’ power play opportunities and stifling any offensive momentum. When the Canadiens scored on a well-executed rush in the third period, it was clear that they had the game in control. The final score, a 4-2 victory, was another testament to Montreal’s growing strength as a team.
What’s Driving the Canadiens’ Success?
While the Canadiens’ hot streak and impressive victories are noteworthy, the key question remains: What’s behind Montreal’s ability to knock off three of the last four Stanley Cup champions? There are several factors at play, each contributing to the team’s rapid rise.
1. The Rise of Young Stars
A central theme to Montreal’s success has been the emergence of young talent. The Canadiens have made significant strides in developing their young core, and the results are evident. Players like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Kirby Dach have taken on leadership roles and become major contributors to the team’s success.
Caufield, in particular, has been a revelation. After a standout rookie season, he has continued to refine his game, becoming one of the NHL’s top goal scorers. His ability to find open ice, release quick shots, and finish with precision has made him a constant offensive threat. Similarly, Suzuki has become the team’s de facto captain and offensive engine, driving play and producing key points in crucial moments. Meanwhile, Dach’s all-around play has added depth to the lineup, allowing the Canadiens to have a more balanced attack.
2. Solid Team Defense and Goaltending
One of the most noticeable improvements for Montreal has been their defensive play. Under head coach Martin St. Louis, the Canadiens have adopted a more structured defensive system that emphasizes puck support, positioning, and disciplined play. The team’s defensemen, including David Savard and the rising Kaiden Guhle, have done an excellent job of limiting quality scoring chances while also contributing offensively.
Goaltending has also been a key factor in the Canadiens’ success. Jake Allen has provided steady play in net, making big saves when called upon, and Samuel Montembeault has stepped up in relief, offering solid support. Montreal’s ability to get timely saves and limit the opposition’s chances has made it easier for the team to play with confidence, knowing they have a reliable goaltender behind them.
3. Effective Special Teams
Montreal’s power play and penalty kill have both been effective this season. The Canadiens’ power play, led by Suzuki and Caufield, has become a major weapon, generating opportunities and converting on the man advantage. The penalty kill has been equally impressive, with the team’s aggressive style and solid work ethic making it difficult for opponents to get set up in the offensive zone.
4. Coaching and System Play
Perhaps most importantly, the Canadiens’ success can be attributed to the system put in place by Martin St. Louis. The Hall of Fame player-turned-coach has brought a dynamic, fast-paced style of play to Montreal, one that emphasizes speed, puck possession, and creativity. Under St. Louis’ guidance, the Canadiens have become a much more organized and cohesive team, with players buying into his vision of a high-energy, team-first mentality.
What Does the Future Hold for Montreal?
As the Canadiens continue their hot streak and rack up wins against some of the NHL’s elite, the future looks bright. The team has already shown that they can compete with the best, and their young core only seems to be improving. With continued development from their young stars, a solid defensive structure, and a system that plays to their strengths, the Canadiens could be on the cusp of returning to playoff contention sooner than expected.
While it’s still early in the season, the Canadiens’ ability to beat three of the last four Stanley Cup champions is a significant statement of their progress. The victory over these elite teams has given Montreal a sense of confidence and validation, both internally and externally. As the team moves forward, their hot streak could very well be the foundation for a successful season and a bright future in the NHL.
For Canadiens fans, the excitement is palpable. The team is no longer just a rebuilding project — they’re a team with legitimate playoff aspirations, and they’ve proven they can take down the league’s top contenders. With the Habs riding high and showing what they’re capable of, the 2023-2024 season could be the beginning of something special in Montreal.
