As the NHL off-season continues, the Montreal Canadiens have been busy identifying potential targets to improve their roster for the upcoming 2021-22 season. From veteran forwards to young defensemen, the Habs have several options they are considering. In this edition of Friday Habs Headlines, we’ll take a closer look at some of the off-season targets Montreal has on their radar.
The Montreal Canadiens have some major decisions to make this offseason as they aim to build a stronger team for the next season. According to Montreal Hockey Now, the Canadiens have some significant gaps on their roster to fill, including a top-line center, a high-calibre defenseman, and a reliable backup goaltender. Additionally, questions surround Pierre-Luc Dubois’s suitability as a fit for the team from both a salary cap and chemistry perspective. Some media outlets, such as Sportsnet, have explored this possibility in-depth.
Meanwhile, with the U18 World Championships underway, La Presse has highlighted some young players to watch. Unfortunately, Canada suffered a humiliating 8-0 defeat to Sweden in their opening game. The tournament’s first day also saw some standout performers, as per the Daily Faceoff. The press has also provided some meaningful insights into how hockey goalies manage to clear their minds during a game’s heat, as both La Presse and Associated Press have reported.
In other news, the Minnesota Wild’s stubborn goalie decision could jeopardize their chances in the series, according to The Athletic. TSN has reported on Winnipeg Jets forward Morgan Barron’s recovery after taking a skate to the face in the first game of the series. The Toronto Maple Leafs also face a challenging playoffs series against the Tampa Bay Lightning, but the Daily Faceoff warns that fixating on officiating could lead to their downfall. Finally, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has once again denied any medical link between playing hockey and developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), as per the Daily Faceoff.
As we wrap up another week of Friday Habs Headlines, it’s clear that the off-season targets are on the minds of many fans and analysts alike. With the NHL draft just around the corner, and free agency opening up shortly thereafter, it’s a crucial time for the Montreal Canadiens front office to make some strategic moves to bolster the team for the upcoming season. While speculation always abounds this time of year, it’s important to remember that nothing is set in stone until the ink is dry on a contract. We’ll be eager to see what the coming weeks bring, and will continue to keep you updated on all the latest Habs headlines as they develop. Thanks for tuning in, and go Habs go!
