I love the Habs young core.
-I think their top line is excellent, albeit lacking game-breakers
-I think Demidov and Hutson will bring the game-breaking element they are missing now.
-I think they have one of the top young D-cores in the league with Guhle, Hutson, Reinbacker, Mailloux & Xhekaj
-I think Fowler and Montembeault will be a great pairing with Fowler having the potential to be elite
-I think Hage & Roy will both be top 6 forwards once developed.
-I think St Louis is an excellent coach & Hughes may be the top GM in the league.
What are they missing? Development time...thats it. IMO - all the pieces are there for a future championship core.
Reality is their division is elite. The top 4 are pretty much set in stone, while OTT, BUF & DET are all increasingly in the mix. Montreal will not be close to the playoffs this year or next, but I expect them to be perennial contenders by 26/27 and dominate the division. They are not taking shortcuts, and are wise to play the long game.
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