Episode Details

Montreal Canadiens fans are buzzing with excitement as the 2026-27 NHL season kicks off this month. Can Nick Suzuki, Lane Hutson, and Juraj Slafkovsky take the next step from emerging stars to franchise cornerstones? Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down the infectious optimism surrounding the Canadiens’ roster development and the significance of this pivotal “season of becoming.”

Key topics include potential expansion draft protection strategies, the latest on Ivan Demidov’s trajectory, and NHL player tier rankings that see Suzuki and Hutson among the league’s elite. The hosts debate future lineup locks, prospect expectations, and the realities of building a contender in Montreal. Plus, how might impending league expansion, division realignment, and playoff format changes shape the Canadiens’ path to success?

Check out Ian's latest blog here: https://gros-match-ce-soir.bearblog.dev/one-final-year-of-becoming-the-2026-27-montreal-canadiens/

00:00 Waiting for the Canadiens' return

04:43 Discussing the season's expectations

07:37 Hopes and worries for Canadiens' season

09:41 Offseason hockey discussions

15:08 Matheson's contract and expansion draft

18:00 Discussing protection slots for players

20:12 Challenges of Expansion Drafts

23:24 Explaining NHL player tiers

28:48 Discussing MVP voting biases

32:25 Zach Werenski's impact on Blue Jackets

35:49 Talking about Dahlin's play style

36:34 Mailbag questions and social media

Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig - Imagn Images

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