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3 Montreal Canadiens who might see a performance dip next season feat. Juraj Slafkovsky
The Montreal Canadiens have made considerable strides in their rebuilding process this offseason. The club has assembled a solid core of young players looking to make an impact on the NHL over the next decade.
While most of the team has made progress, three players stand out as potential candidates for regression.
Here's a closer look at three Montreal Canadiens who might see a performance dip next season.
3 Montreal Canadiens who might see a performance dip in 2024-25
#3. Sam Montembeault
It’s tough to imagine Montembeault taking a step back next year. After all, last season was a particularly tough year for the young netminder. In 41 games, he posted a 3.14 GAA and a .903 SV%.
While the GAA looks bad, the SV% doesn’t seem too low, especially when considering the relatively weak defense in front of Montembeault.
However, things could change next season. Montembeault is projected to be the starter. As such, he will be relied upon to start more than the 40 games he did last season. The increased workload could affect his overall numbers.
If that’s the case, the Canadiens may need to look at another goaltender to help Montembeault carry the load.
#2. Mike Matheson
Matheson emerged as Montreal’s best blueliner last season. His 11 goals and 62 points led the team’s defenders.
However, Matheson could be primed for a regression, potentially failing to meet the same offensive numbers he did last season.
Additionally, Matheson was a minus-24 on the season. That number is indicative of the poor defense Montreal played last season.
While the Habs will hope that Matheson can step up as the team’s No. 1 defenseman, there’s a possibility that Matherson may take a step back next season. In that event, the Habs will need to look at other blue-line options.
#1. Juraj Slafkovsky
Slafkovsky has a fantastic second season. His 20 goals and 50 points in all 82 games are a step in the right direction. Moreover, his six power-play goals are an indication that Slafkovsky could become one of the league’s best power-play specialists.
Nevertheless, there’s a chance that Slafkovsky could regress next season. As it stands, he’s firmly entrenched on the Habs’ top line with captain Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.
However, Patrik Laine’s arrival has opened the door to competition for the left-wing spot on the top line. This added competition could affect Slafkovsky’s production, especially if Laine gets off to a hot start.
Ultimately, it perhaps wouldn’t be a surprise to see Slafkovsky regress slightly. But the expectation is that Slafkovsky will continue to develop his overall game heading into his third NHL season.
How do you think the Montreal Canadiens will fare next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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