3 Montreal Canadiens bounce-back candidates who disappointed in 2023-24 feat. Brendan Gallagher

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Jul 31, 2024 03:49 GMT

The rebuilding Montreal Canadiens made great strides last year, setting the foundation for what appears to be a competitive team in the not-too-distant future. Despite the relatively low overall expectations for the team, fans and team management hoped that some veteran players would step up to support team captain Nick Suzuki.

However, three players stand out as veteran leaders who could turn back time and produce bounce-back campaigns, helping the Montreal Canadiens return to the playoff conversation in the Atlantic Division.

Here’s a look at three disappointing players from 2023-24 who are poised for a bounce-back campaign in 2024-25.

3 Montreal Canadiens players who are bounce-back candidates for next season

#3: David Savard

The 33-year-old Savard has nearly 800 NHL games under his belt. However, the last three seasons have seen him play roughly 60 games in each season. Savard has missed time with various injuries, affecting his overall production and consistency.

While Savard put up 24 points last season, a point total he last achieved in 2018-19 with the Columbus Blue Jackets, his defensive play has declined significantly.

However, the hope is that Savard can be at full strength for this upcoming season. If that’s the case, Savard can provide that stable, shutdown defensive play that’s characterized him throughout his career. His point totals may not surpass his career high of 25. But if Savard can provide steady defense throughout the year, the Habs could be poised for a better-than-expected season.

#2: Christian Dvorak

Dvorak projects as the Montreal Canadiens’ third-line center. That role is crucial considering the relative lack of depth the Habs have down the middle. Last season was especially disappointing for Dvorak as injuries kept him out of the lineup for long stretches.

All told, Dvorak played in 30 games, registering five goals and nine points. A full season of at least 70 games would allow Dvorak to return to his usual 30-plus-point production. Topping 40 points would be an unbelievable boost for the Habs’ depth scoring.

#1: Brendan Gallagher

Gallagher has been a little bit of everything for the Montreal Canadiens during his career. Gallagher hit a career-high 54 points in 2017-18. He’s also topped 30 goals twice. However, the last four seasons have been a challenge for the veteran winger.

Injuries and inconsistent play have affected his overall effectiveness. In particular, Gallagher registered 74 penalty minutes last season, the highest of his career.

This season, the hope is that playing with Alex Newhook and the projected return of Kirby Dach would solidify the Habs’ second line. If that’s the case, all three players could have a renaissance, allowing them to reach or perhaps surpass their previous career highs.