The Montreal Canadiens enter the 2025-26 season with more optimism than they’ve had in years. After an aggressive offseason that brought in scoring punch and bolstered the defence, the Habs look ready to take another step in their rebuild-to-contender transition. While expectations are cautiously optimistic, let’s go a step further: here are three bold predictions for the season.
Ivan Demidov Wins the Calder Trophy
Lane Hutson stunned the league in 2024-25 with an electrifying rookie campaign that earned him Rookie of the Year honours. Ivan Demidov enters the NHL as one of the most hyped young players. Drafted fifth overall by the Canadiens in 2024, he dominated the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) with his dynamic blend of creativity, skating, and goal-scoring instincts. At just 19 years old, he already has the poise of a seasoned pro, with the ability to dictate play every time he touches the puck.
The Canadiens will give him every opportunity to succeed. Projected to start the season alongside Kirby Dach and Patrik Laine, Demidov won’t be sheltered. Montreal trusts his talent and knows he can deliver. With prime power play minutes and a green light offensively, the stage is set for him to explode out of the gate.
Of course, Demidov faces stiff competition. The 2025 draft class was loaded with elite talent, and players like Matthew Schaefer will make strong Calder pushes of their own. But few rookies will step into a situation as ideal as Demidov’s, surrounded by skilled linemates, with strong coaching support, and playing in a city hungry for the next superstar.
Related: 3 Canadiens Prospects to Watch in 2025-26
If he clicks early, Demidov has the potential to not only win the Calder but also put up one of the most impressive rookie campaigns in Canadiens history.
Patrik Laine Back to His 40-Goal Form
When the Canadiens acquired Laine, it was a gamble. The 2016 second overall pick has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career, including multiple 30-plus goal seasons, but consistency and health have been his biggest obstacles. Since his days in Winnipeg, the narrative around Laine has been one of “what if.” What if he stayed healthy? What if he found the right system? What if he regained his confidence?
Montreal is betting that this season provides those answers. Laine enters the season healthy and motivated. The Canadiens are expected to give him top-six minutes alongside elite playmakers…
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