As every fan knows, when you’re the Montreal Canadiens, expectations are always sky-high. We’ve got 24 (yes twenty-four) Stanley Cup wins under our belts! Us fans expect a little drama, a dash of brilliance, and – dare we say it – dominance on the ice. Sure, the past decade hasn’t – quite – delivered another championship banner to the Bell Centre rafters, but it’s given us no shortage of memorable, nail-biting, and sometimes pretty controversial moments. Let’s dive into some of the best ones!

2014: Carey Price’s Stellar Playoff Run (and Heartbreak)

If you’re a Canadiens fan, (and if you’re on this site then you likely are!) you probably still wince when you hear Chris Kreider’s name. The 2014 Eastern Conference Final was shaping up to be something magical. Carey Price was in the form of his life, carrying the Habs past Tampa Bay and Boston with jaw-dropping saves and an almost eerie calm under pressure.

And then it happened. Kreider, whether intentionally or not (a debate for the ages), crashed into Price in Game 1, leaving the Canadiens’ MVP out for the rest of the series. We fought valiantly but ultimately fell to the Rangers. Doing it all without the star goalie felt like a real punch to the gut. But, fortunes change so quickly in hockey and this was a terrifying reminder of that. 

2015: P.K. Subban’s Norris Trophy Season

It’s not hyperbole to say that P.K. Subban wasn’t just a defenseman; he was a force of nature. His 2014-15 season, where he earned the Norris Trophy, remains one of the most entertaining individual campaigns of the decade. He was everything you could possibly want in a player – explosive on the ice, fearless in big moments, and, let’s be honest, an absolute showman.

He wasn’t just brilliant on the ice, he was brilliant off it too. His $10 million donation to the Montreal Children’s Hospital was a historic moment, but there were – many – others. He was truly a part of Montreal, so his trade to Nashville in 2016 really stung. No matter how good Shea Weber was, losing Subban felt personal.

2019: Shea Weber Named Captain

Speaking of Shea Weber, he’s had a pretty special few moments too! One of these came when Shea Weber was named Canadien’s captain in 2019. It felt like the Canadiens were hitting the reset button after years (and years, and years) of uncertainty. Weber isn’t flashy – he’s not going to give you a Subban-esque windmill celebration – but his steady presence and reliability under pressure were exactly what the team needed.

Weber’s leadership shone brightest during the 2021 playoff run when he played through injuries and anchored the team’s defense like an absolute warrior. Sure, his tenure as captain may have been cut short by injury. But, his impact on the team’s culture and future leaders, like Nick Suzuki, is undeniable. We all owe him one!

2021: The Miracle Playoff Run

You could write a novel about the Canadiens’ 2021 playoff run – and, dare I say it, some fans probably have! Coming in as the league’s ultimate underdogs, NFL betting markets had us the outsiders of the lot, we looked like we’d barely scrape by. But what followed was the kind of Hollywood-scripted madness that turns skeptics into believers. 

First, they overcame a 3-1 series deficit to eliminate their eternal rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs (who, let’s face it, really didn’t want that particular headline). Then came the sweep of Winnipeg, followed by the dismantling of the Vegas Golden Knights. Carey Price, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield were electric. Shea Weber’s leadership? Inspiring. By the time they reached the Finals against Tampa Bay, it felt like destiny. Just existing in the stands, watching it all play out in real time is a memory that no ticket price could even come close to justifying.

Sure, the Lightning rained on their parade, but that run wasn’t just about winning. It was about unity – fans rallying around a team that refused to quit, proving that the Canadiens’ magic is still very much alive.

The last decade of Canadiens hockey has been a rollercoaster of emotions – heartbreak, triumph, and everything in between. But that’s what makes being a Habs fan so special. You never know what’s coming next, but you know it’ll be unforgettable.

There is no shortage of holiday gifts ideas this season for any Montreal Canadiens sports fan, and much more.

Be it Montreal Canadiens merchandise, tickets, special events, Women’s Professional hockey, or Habs affiliate in Laval.   Or looking to get a guided tour of the Bell Centre?  We got that covered too.   And so much more.

Montreal Canadiens Hockey Tickets

This season the Canadiens were supposed to be in the mix of things. But they are still struggling to find their identity. Nevertheless, watching a Canadiens team live in person, is second to none in the NHL. Plenty of Habs games are available. Big games coming up in January vs Toronto Maple Leafs, NY Rangers. And the Stanley Cup Champs Florida Panthers play at the Bell Centre March 15.

Montreal Canadiens merchandise

Looking for that Montreal Canadiens jersey, t-shirt , tuque or Cap?  In Montreal check out Logo Sports, located at 4040 boul. Saint-Laurent.  They have plenty of items at all price points.  You can also find some of their items online at https://shop.gohabs.com

 

 Four Nations Face-off Tournament

This season, the NHL All-Star format has been replaced by a new tournament, showcasing the best NHL players from Canada, USA, Finland and Sweden.  The games will be played in Montreal and Boston.  The teams are set.  The tournament takes place between Feb 12 – Feb 20, 2025.  Check out the full schedule here.   The format is round-robin, with the top two teams playing in the final.  But all eyes will be on the Feb 15 game Canada vs USA.

The Championship final goes in February 20, 2025.

Laval Rocket Hockey Tickets

The Montreal Canadiens AHL farm team plays in Laval’s Place Bell.  The Laval Rocket are in first place in their division, and gives plenty of hope for the future of Montreal Canadiens hockey fans.  Great for the whole family, at family-friendly prices.   Check out the Laval Rocket schedule here.  

Montreal Victoire

Professional Women’s Hockey League, the PWHL, is now into their second season of operation.  And the Montreal Victoire provide excitement.  The women where their hearts on their jersey.  And you can tell.  Great excitement, as the Victoire play all their home games at Laval’s Place Bell.  Plenty of games to choose from.  See Montreal Victoire schedule

Montreal Bell Centre Tours

Looking for a change of pace?  Ever wonder how the Canadiens locker room looks like?  Where the press conferences take place?  Get to see great behind the scenes at The Bell Centre. There are daily tours of the mecca of hockey where you can take a guided tour of the Bell Centre.  Highly recommended for hockey fans, and lifelong fans.  See more details on Bell Centre Guided Tours .

 

Cirque du Soleil Ovo at The Bell Centre

From December 27, 2024 to January 5, 2025, Cirque du Soleil’s Ovo takes over the Bell Centre. Ovo is a fantasy show. If you want to be immersed in dazzling acrobats , family-friendly, entertaining, and full of athleticism and physical grace. Check out the full Cirque du Soleil Ovo schedule here.

The Montreal Canadiens, fondly known as Les Habitants or simply the Habs, are one of the most iconic franchises in the National Hockey League (NHL). With a legacy spanning over a century, they are the oldest professional hockey club still in operation, and their 24 Stanley Cup championships are a testament to their storied history. Yet, their fan base continues to grow, even in the modern era of professional sports. This article examines the various factors that have contributed to the increasing popularity of the Canadiens among hockey enthusiasts worldwide.

1. Rich History and Legacy

The Canadiens were established in 1909, making them an integral part of NHL history. The team’s illustrious record, including the most Stanley Cup championships in NHL history, has cemented its reputation as a hockey powerhouse. Their historical significance attracts not only loyal local fans but also hockey enthusiasts from around the globe who appreciate the team’s contributions to the sport and those who spend time on other fun things like the online aviator game.

This storied legacy fosters a sense of pride and loyalty among existing fans while drawing new admirers who want to be part of a celebrated tradition.

2. Passionate and Loyal Fanbase

Montreal Canadiens fans are renowned for their unwavering passion. Their devotion is evident in their enthusiastic presence at games, whether at home in the Bell Centre or on the road. This enthusiasm creates an electric atmosphere that enhances the game-day experience for attendees and viewers alike.

The Canadiens’ fan loyalty often spans generations, with parents passing their love for the team to their children. This cultural transmission ensures a steady influx of new fans who grow up cherishing the Habs.

3. Star Players and Legends

The Canadiens’ history is decorated with legendary players, from Maurice “Rocket” Richard and Jean Béliveau to more recent stars like Carey Price. These athletes have delivered memorable performances and embodied the values of hard work, resilience, and excellence, inspiring countless fans.

The presence of iconic players draws attention to the franchise, with younger audiences often discovering the team through the exploits of their heroes. The Canadiens’ ability to consistently cultivate talent helps maintain their appeal across generations.

4. Community Engagement and Grassroots Initiatives

The Canadiens have excelled in fostering community connections, playing a pivotal role in the sport’s grassroots development in Quebec and beyond. Their outreach programs, such as hockey clinics and youth tournaments, nurture future generations of players and fans.

The Canadiens have established a deep-rooted presence in their region through partnerships with local schools and community organizations. This engagement strengthens their bond with fans, creating a sense of belonging and shared identity.

5. Strong Media Presence

The Canadiens benefit from extensive media coverage, both locally and internationally. In Quebec, where hockey is more than just a sport, the team enjoys widespread television, radio, and digital media coverage. This visibility helps them stay relevant and accessible to existing and potential fans.

The rise of social media has also played a crucial role in fan growth. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok allow the Canadiens to connect directly with fans, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage in real-time interactions. Their robust digital strategy has made them more relatable to younger audiences.

6. The Bell Centre Experience

The Canadiens’ home arena, the Bell Centre, offers one of the best game-day experiences in the NHL. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, top-tier amenities, and enthusiastic crowds, the Bell Centre has become a must-visit destination for hockey fans.

From the iconic pre-game ceremonies to the passionate chants of “Olé, Olé, Olé,” the in-arena experience fosters a deeper connection with the team. First-time attendees often leave as lifelong fans, contributing to the team’s growing popularity.

7. Bilingual and Multicultural Appeal

As a team based in Montreal, a bilingual city, the Canadiens have a unique advantage in appealing to English and French-speaking audiences. They celebrate Quebec’s cultural heritage, resonating deeply with local fans while also welcoming fans from diverse backgrounds.

Montreal’s multicultural character adds another layer to the Canadiens’ fanbase. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, the team has broadened its appeal and attracted fans from various communities worldwide.

8. Rivalries and Iconic Matchups

The Canadiens’ fierce rivalries, particularly with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins, add drama and excitement to their games. These rivalries, often highlighted by historical playoff clashes, capture fans’ imaginations and create unforgettable moments.

High-stakes matchups and intense competition draw casual sports fans, some of whom become dedicated Canadiens supporters after experiencing the thrill of these contests.

9. Innovative Marketing and Branding

The Canadiens have embraced innovative marketing strategies to enhance their brand appeal. From leveraging modern technology to create engaging content to collaborating with influencers and sponsors, their approach ensures relevance in a competitive sports landscape.

Merchandising also plays a key role, with the Canadiens’ iconic logo and team colors instantly recognizable symbols of hockey culture. The availability of team apparel, accessories, and memorabilia allows fans to showcase their loyalty, further amplifying the brand.

10.  Performance in Key Moments

While the Canadiens have faced challenges in recent years, their ability to deliver thrilling performances in key moments—such as their unexpected run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021—keeps fans invested. These moments of triumph reignite fan enthusiasm and attract new followers captivated by the team’s resilience.

Conclusion

The Montreal Canadiens’ enduring popularity is no accident. A combination of historical success, iconic players, community engagement, and innovative strategies has helped them cultivate a passionate and growing fanbase. By staying true to their roots while embracing modern trends, the Canadiens continue to be a beloved team both in Canada and across the globe.

As a cherished hockey team with a storied history, the Montreal Canadiens capture the hearts of countless fans. With the rise of sports betting, more fans are eager to engage in wagering, especially when it comes to their favorite hockey games. Understanding betting trends can enhance enjoyment and offer insights into game outcomes. 

The Montreal Canadiens stand as one of the most beloved teams, thanks to their rich history and loyal fanbase. In recent years, sports betting has surged in popularity, captivating not only seasoned gamblers but also casual sports enthusiasts. Fans are increasingly interested in integrating betting into their game-watching experience, seeking insights that could give them an edge when placing wagers. Whether you’re new to sports betting or a seasoned pro, understanding how to analyze odds and trends can enhance your experience and potentially improve your chances of success.

Interpreting Betting Odds

Betting odds serve as a crucial component in sports wagering, offering a numerical expression of the likelihood of a specific outcome occurring during a hockey game. These odds are not just mere numbers, they represent the potential payout from a bet placed on that particular outcome. You will often encounter various types of odds, including moneyline, point spread and over/under. Each type provides different insights and strategies for bettors. Understanding these differences is key for anyone looking to make informed decisions when placing bets on hockey games and Tooniebet is an online casino that is a great example of a site that offers information about odds, moneylines and the like. 

When delving into moneyline bets, you’ll find they focus solely on picking which team will win outright without considering point margins. On the other hand, point spreads require you to predict whether a team will win by a certain number of points or not lose by more than that margin. Lastly, over/under bets involve predicting whether the total number of goals scored in a game will be over or under a specified number set by bookmakers. Familiarizing yourself with these terms can significantly enhance your betting strategy.

Examining Betting Trends

Examining betting trends involves more than just looking at current odds, it requires examining various aspects such as team performance, player statistics and historical data. This analysis allows bettors to identify patterns that could influence future game outcomes. For instance, understanding how well players perform under specific conditions or against certain opponents can offer valuable insights when deciding where to place your bets.

Moreover, tracking team performance over time is essential for recognizing trends that might not be immediately obvious. This includes examining win-loss records, home versus away performance differences and injury reports that might impact a team’s ability to perform at its best. Keeping an eye on predictions can further enrich your understanding of potential outcomes in upcoming matches.

Tips For Betting on Canadiens Games

For those interested in placing bets on Canadiens games, there are several practical tips to consider that can enhance your overall betting experience. Staying informed is paramount – this means regularly checking team news updates and player condition reports as these factors heavily influence game outcomes. Additionally, understanding the team’s style of play and how it matches up against opponents can provide useful insights when making betting decisions.

It’s also crucial to diversify your betting strategy by not relying solely on one type of bet or consistently backing the home team without proper analysis. Exploring different markets and being open to adjusting strategies based on new information is vital for any successful bettor. Remembering that no bet is guaranteed will help maintain realistic expectations and ensure responsible gambling habits.

 

 

Montreal Canadiens fans are a breed of their own, and it is impossible to disregard their presence in a game. To them, this team is not just the hockey club; it is a piece of their lives and cultures inherited from their predecessors. Canadiens don’t merely cheer for their team, but rather, they register themselves as a true pride that is well rooted beyond the hockey arena. Therefore, their loyalty has been expected to affect other sectors, and the Canadian casino industry is one of the best examples.

Canadian casinos have sensed this solid backing, and they are now adjusting their environment and services to reflect Canada’s bias. That is why casinos are looking for a way to make these fans comfortable, to capture the energy of hockey in a manner that speaks to them. Special sports lounges, hockey-oriented conferences, and different events in the building have turned the Casino into a place where people can feel the game’s atmosphere in the match with the Canadiens. With this, casinos in Canada are experiencing a gradual increase as they associate with the passion and hard work of the Canadiens fans.

The Loyalty of Montreal Canadiens Fans

A Tradition Passed Down

There is a strong fanaticism of the Canadiens and the game of hockey that extends to other forms of entertainment, such as visiting casinos. I believe that the atmosphere that fans look for, at least in terms of the rise and fall that mirrors that of a hockey game, can easily be found in casinos. The liveliness of a casino night is similar to the excitement and passion the fans enjoy, and each win and loss is equal to the adrenaline. For these fans, going to a casino is a part of being a fan of that particular team, and it is the same feeling of exhilaration as supporting a team you love.

From the Arena to the Casino

Of course, the fans of the Canadiens are eager to watch the games that are more critical to keep the active atmosphere. Fans have been aware of this preference and the Casino has also observed it in the games that fans most prefer. Whether it’s the thrill of spinning the wheel in roulette or the skills involved in playing poker, these kinds of games are the best. These games are the closest thing for Canadiens fans to what they feel on game night for a different stake in a different environment, but the love of risk and reward is symmetrical with the love for hockey.

A Unique Taste for Thrills

Canadiens fans are naturally drawn to high-stakes games that keep the energy alive. Casinos have noticed this preference, and it’s reflected in the games that fans enjoy the most. Whether it’s the suspense of roulette or the strategy of poker, these games offer the perfect combination of excitement and skill. For Canadiens fans, these games allow them to experience the thrill they feel on game night in a new setting, creating a shared love of risk and reward that aligns perfectly with their hockey passion.

The Rise of Casino Popularity in Canada

Over time, there has been increased development in the number of casinos in Canada especially in Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia domains of the Montreal Canadiens. They are now moving beyond their roles as gambling venues; they are becoming entertainment centers that offer sports facilities, performances and halls, and recreational areas. That is where Canadiens fans come to feel united, to come for a drink, discuss with fellow fans, and watch the games on the big screens. It’s a time to share a common interest even if it means the Canadiens aren’t playing on the rink.

The new legalization of single-event sports betting in Canada also makes casinos even more attractive. Canadiens fans are already supportive of the team, and now there are additional stimuli to come to the Casino, make their bets in special sports facilities, and watch the games together with like-minded people. New NetEnt casinos also come up with new games to support the enthusiasm of the Canadiens fans, which is considered the spirit of the thrill. This addition has also contributed to making casinos lively to the extent of replicating a game night where people can watch together, cheer in unison, and, most importantly, celebrate.

How Canadiens Fans Are Influencing Casino Trends

Many fans of the Canadiens are satisfied with the new wave of work in the Canadian Casino, as they try to bring an atmosphere close to hockey culture. Fans have also ensured that casinos change gradually, right from the games they include in their list or the interior decor in order to relate to a hockey theme.

• Certain casinos have started holding Canadiens-themed game nights where fans get to view their beloved games and also play the tables, meaning game night is not a normal occasion.
• Arlot casinos have installed lounges where they relay live games of the Canadiens on giant screens and, as a result, fans can watch the game as well as risk.
• Loyalty programs today directly appeal to fans by providing instant money off Canadiens items or benefits linked to ticketing of games.
• Some casinos give away Canadiens-branded items or even tickets to the game, and people come for more than just the money.
• Some casinos take it a notch higher by arranging the place with Canadiens products and the team’s colors so that people feel like they belong to the team.

Customized Casino Experiences for Canadiens Fans

Some Casinos have found the best way to exploit the Canadiens fans by customizing the experiences to be more like watching the game. Fans do not want to be left out of future moments and casinos have been more than happy to oblige by adding themed nights, merchandise giveaways, and even game promotions. This focus on the fans is not a mere publicity stunt, but instead actually allows Canadiens fans to feel a part of the atmosphere that the team brings to the ice, as the Casino incorporates into the physical space. The concept is to ensure that every time the patrons go to a casino, they feel as if they are coming to a game night with the intensity and enthusiasm they seek.

In addition to this, casinos have developed areas that would make one think it has been designed for the Canadiens to convene. Hockey-themed lounges with pictures of hockey sticks and screens featuring Canadiens’ clips make fans feel at home. In seating arrangements meant for groups of people, the casinos provide ample opportunity to cluster as people do when watching sports at a sports bar. While this atmosphere is tied to hockey, an often overlooked theme is, in reality — more than a fun bonus; it’s a place to feel included fans. For Canadiens fans, the Casino transforms into the place where they can commemorate their team in a qualitatively new way and enrich the overall experience.

Your Winning Strategy

Feeling like going out? So much for a Canadiens fan; it is not just a night in a casino. It is an opportunity to have fun in the game and to be in the atmosphere of the hockey-oriented Casino. Whether you are hooting alongside friends, wagering on the team, or simply enjoying a backdrop that has been influenced by the Montreal Canadiens, these casinos have crafted these spaces with you in mind.

It is not just a single game; it is the duration of the games, the people involved, and the emotions that come with it. So the next time you find yourself in a casino, look out for the Canadiens promotion, theme nights, and other little things that make a casino feel like a hockey rink. This cross between hockey and Casino is made exciting by your loyalty to the team, and each visit is really in tune with the spirit of the Canadiens.

 

The Laval Rocket, AHL affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, will commence their 8th season this week. The Home opener is schedule for Friday October 18, 2024 when Laval plays host to the Syracuse Crunch.

This season’s expectations for the Laval Rocket are higher than in previous seasons.  The team is younger, but more importantly, it’s stocked with many of the recent draft picks of the Jeff Gorton & Kent Hughes regime.

Lead by prospects up front like Own Beck, Sean Farrell, Riley Kidney, Florian Xhekaj, Filip Mesar, Luke Tuch, and Joshua Roy.  And on defence Adam Engstrom, Logan Mailloux and William Trudeau.  Unfortunately Rocket fans will not see Canadien’s 2023 1st round pick, David Reinbacher, out 5-6 months with a knee injury he suffered during a Canadiens pre-season game.  In goal, Laval is opting with two young prospects.  Connor Hughes is a UFA goalie coming out of the NCAA ranks.  Whereas Jakub Dobes is a 2020 5th round draft pick who impressed many at the Canadiens training camp last month.

Place Bell

Despite lack of success over the last few seasons for Laval Rocket, that hasn’t stopped fans from wanting to catch a game at Place Bell.  Place Bell is ideally located in the heart of Laval, a suburb of Montreal.  It’s next to a metro station on the Line 2 (orange line).  And it’s a 30 minute metro ride from downtown Montreal.  Last season, Laval Rocket average just over 8,300 spectators.  Place Bell’s capacity is about 10,000 seats.

One thing is certain, win or lose, the atmosphere at Place Bell is electric. Most home games are played on Friday nights and Saturday matinees. With some mid-week games. Prices are fan-friendly where the whole family can enjoy.

For a complete list of home games, check out the schedule.

Due to popularization of sports betting Canada has lots of new hockey fans, some of whom might not be aware of the glorious history of one of the teams located north of the border. Montreal Canadiens hold the distinction of being the oldest professional hockey team in the world, as they are continuously in operation since their founding in 1909. They also happen to be the team with the most Stanley Cup wins as they lifted the trophy 24 times between 1916 and 1993. This unmatched run deserves closer attention, and we will try to present the most notable moments in the proud history of Montreal’s franchise.

Humble Beginnings and First Championships

Few people know that Canadiens are actually older than the league they are playing in. When they first came together, they competed in the National Hockey Association and won their first Stanley Cup in this league. Montreal was a founding member of the NHL in 1917, but it took quite a few years to win the league in 1924. Two more Stanley Cup wins followed in 1930 and 1931, but considering the league was tiny at this time and had fewer than 10 teams, the team could have been expected to win more. During this period, Canadiens were led by Howie Morenz, who was one of the first big stars that NHL had. The team had a resurgence in the 1940’s, when they won two more championships under the guidance of their next legend, Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard. Richard was so beloved in Montreal that the fans rioted when he was suspended in the later part of his career.

Powerhouse in the Post-War Period

After World War II, Montreal Canadiens has a period of amazing success that stands out in league history to this day. The team was consistently a contender for the trophy, and started amassing them in the 1950’s. After winning a title in 1953 and losing in the finals in 1955, the team went on a run of five consecutive Stanley Cup wins starting in 1956. Rocket Richard was the star of the team during this era, flanked by younger players like Jean Beliveau and Bernie Geoffrion. Canadiens went through a brief rebuilding phase in the early 60s, but this paid off as the team became even more unstoppable in its next iteration.  Their new era of stellar success would happen under the command of legendary coach Sam Polock, who took over in 1964 and remained on the job for the next 14 years.

Hockey Dynasty that Keeps Stringing Stanley Cup Wins

As NHL was approaching its big expansion in 1967, Montreal Canadiens were again among the very best teams in the league. In 1965, they started their second period of dominance that saw them lift the trophy five years in a row again, before adding four more championships in the mid-to-late 1970’s. They maintained their grip on the league despite increased number of teams, which was 18 in 1978. When all their triumphs from this historical period are added, the Canadiens won 17 titles in the 35 years between 1945 and 1980. That’s a success rate that will never be matched in the NHL and a source of eternal pride for Montreal fans to this day. Lead by Guy Lafleur, Serge Savard, Larry Robinson, Yvan Cournoyer, Bob Gainey, the Canasdiens were considered so much better than their rivals they were selected to face the Soviet Red Army team in 1975 in a game that many people believe to be the greatest hockey match ever played.

The Last Gasps of a Former Giant

While the Canadiens remained competitive in the 80’s, their unbeatable aura was shaken and the team was forced to adapt to a rapidly improving field of rivals. After several tough playoff losses, Montreal reached the top once more in 1986 with a younger team led by Claude Lemieux and goalkeeper Patrick Roy. This win was even sweeter since it was achieved against Calgary Flames in the first NHL finals featuring two teams from Canada since 1967. Montreal reached the finals again in 1989 against the same opponent, but couldn’t add to its championship case. They had to wait until 1993 to win their 24^th and last Stanley Cup, beating the Los Angeles Kings to become the last Canadian team to win the NHL title. Soon after, glory days came to an end as Montreal missed the playoffs for the first time in 25 years in 1996 and things only got worse from there.

How Long Will We Wait for Cup #25?

Over the last 3 decades, Montreal Canadiens haven’t been able to replicate their earlier success. Like many Canadian teams, they struggled to keep up with richer and more dynamic teams from the US and while the team managed to avoid relocation its results were largely underwhelming. Recently, there have been signs of hope as the team reached the NHL finals in 2021 for the first time since 1993. The Canadiens still have a loyal fan base and remain on the mission to recapture their golden days, but it remains to be seen how much longer it will take to win another Cup.

The Montreal Canadiens embark on a new season, 2024-25 beginning October 9, 2024.  The Canadiens open the season at home, for a change, against their division rivals Toronto Maple Leafs. According to Betvictor Canada , Canadiens will be hard pressed to make the playoffs this season,

Since the Canadiens went to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2021, the Canadiens have gone through three losing seasons.  Finishing last in 2022, and fifth from the bottom the last two seasons.

New Faces

This season, the Canadiens hope to make inroads into the standings.  Their big off-season acquisition was acquiring Patrick Laine.  Unfortunately, Habs fans will need to wait to see Laine until Christmas at the earliest, as he succumb to a knee injuring during a pre-season game.  

However, all eyes will be on rookie defenseman Lane Hutson.  Hutson played the last two games at the end of last season, but will now be counted on to play top-3 minutes on the team.

Free-agent acquisition , forward Alex Barre-Boulet will fill the third line.   Other new faces to start the season with the team are Oliver Kapanen, 2021 second round draft pick.  And 2020 4^th round pick, forward Emile Heineman.

Fans are also excited and hoping that they will see more of Kirby Dach this coming season.  Last season, Dach’s season came to an abrupt end during the second game of the season when he suffered torn ACL and MCL ligaments in his right knee when being checked into the boards in a game vs the  Chicago Blackhawks.

The Bell Centre

Off-ice, the biggest change is the new scoreboard at the Bell Centre.  As per Canadiens.com; the previous scoreboard installed in 2008 was 29’ x 16’ on all four sides.  The new board measures 41’ x 21’ along the length of the ice and 32’ x 21’ facing the ends – a total video surface of nearly 2,900 square feet. It features an ultra-high-definition image with 2.5 times the resolution of its predecessor and integrates rounded corners to allow for enhanced visuals that incorporate 360-degree video and forced perspective. Additionally, two angled screens measuring 21’ x 6’6” will be installed below the longer sides of the board to provide better viewing angles for fans in lower seats.

TV/Radio/Streaming

For local fans, no real change on the airwaves.  TSN Radio Montreal and 98,5fm will broadcast all games on radio.  On TV dial, RDS has regional rights to 60 Habs games.  TVA Sports has the remaining 22 games.  In English, TSN regional will broadcast 50 games.  Sportsnet and its partners (CBC/City-TV) will broadcast 27.  But this year, national TV rights holder, Rogers has sub-licensed their Monday night Canadian national TV rights package to Amazon Prime TV.  So 5 Canadiens games will be on Amazon Prime starting October 14 vs Pittsburgh Penguins.   

For Habs fans outside the Canadiens’ regional network, they can watch all games by subscribing to Sportsnet+ premium, or NHL Centre Ice.

For fans outside Canada, Canadiens games can be streamed on ESPN+.

The Montreal Canadiens are a franchise that has endured a difficult stretch over the past few years, as they have struggled to field a competitive roster. High lottery odds have become the norm, but fans, pundits, and betting enthusiasts are hoping this is a year that could mark a true return to form for the legendary franchise.

The Canadiens still field a young, inexperienced roster, but there is a ton of talent. If the team is going to take that next step and really take off, several players will be the primary reasons why. Let’s look at the seven favourites on the Canadiens who could help them surge up the standings.

Cole Caufield

Cole Caufield is the undersized sniper who many believe has the most talent on the team. He has been a highly productive player throughout his career, although it still feels like fans are waiting for him to take things to the next level. Caufield still hasn’t crossed the 30-goal threshold, and his career-high in points was set last year at 65. If Caufield can find his next gear, reaching 40 goals and a point per game, he will be the leader of a powerful offence that could spur this team into the playoffs.

Lane Hutson

If you look at the NHL Calder Trophy odds on most Ontario sportsbooks , you’ll find one defenceman’s name up there around the top: Lane Hutson. Hutson is entering the year with massive hype, as the diminutive defenceman is considered the top prospect at his position. Hutson is a unique talent who can move the puck with the best of them, bringing a highly advanced offensive game that will be massive for the Canadiens power play. There is concern about his ability to hold up defensively, but Hutson is so skilled offensively that it may not even matter.

Nick Suzuki

Suzuki is a known quantity at this point. He is a highly reliable center who plays an excellent two-way game, and he has already established himself as a great leader for this franchise. Suzuki has been highly reliable for this franchise, staying on the ice for every game last season and putting up just under a point per game. The Canadiens need his steady presence, and he is still just 25 years old. Expect another high-quality season from the captain, who is continuing to show fans why he is one to bet on.

Juraj Slafkovsky

After a trying rookie season where he only mustered 10 points in just under 40 games, people seemed all too eager to right off Slafkovsky, the first overall pick in 2022. The big Czech forward showed why that would be a foolish mistake in his follow-up performance. He turned in a massive second half of the season and showed fans what makes him such a superstar prospect. Slafkovsky is still just 20, and he is already on his way to becoming a star. If he continues to develop and blossom, there is a real chance that he will become a superstar.

Patrik Laine

The Canadiens made a high-risk investment this offseason, trading for Patrik Laine. Since arriving, Laine has already received a significant knee injury and will miss the first couple months of the season. However, he is exactly the kind of player who can come in and lead a playoff push. Laine has fallen on difficult times, but he is a top-level talent when he is healthy, capable of scoring 40 goals and fueling the power play unit. Laine is looking for a team where he can return to his previous form, and Montreal is looking for proven stars.

Kaiden Guhle

Every team that will make the postseason needs a reliable, physical defenceman to help lead the way. The Canadiens have their guy in Kaiden Guhle. He may not be a Quinn Hughes, Cale Makar type, but that is not what the team needs him to be. Guhle signed a long-term contract with the Canadiens to serve as their workhorse defenceman and handle the other team’s top pairing. He is physical, strong, and still brings a high-quality offensive game that has room for growth. Best of all, he is still just 22.

Samuel Montembeault

Arguably, the biggest thing holding back the Canadiens from having high odds of making the playoffs is their goaltending situation. Samuel Montembeault seems like he will be the starter for the team, but he lacks the high-end experience one would hope for. Still, Montembeault has potential, even if he hasn’t been the most reliable in the NHL. Montembeault’s career numbers are not great, but he has never played more than 41 games in a season. The Canadiens are hoping that more time in the crease will lead to better results. If Montembeault can become a viable starter, the Canadiens are in a good position.

GOHABS.com has been around since 1998. And over the years it has been featured on radio, TV, newspaper. But looking back, it’s been all on English media.

Well last month that changed.   Tony Marinaro, long time radio host on TSN690, left radio almost two years ago to pursue a Podcast venture, The Sick Podcast.  And this fall, Tony returned to radio, but on French radio.

Tony hosts a daily sports show on BPM Sports , daily from 10am – 12pm on French Radio BPM Sports, called Le Forum.

Last month, Tony was on air talking to his producer about the Max Pacioretty trade, when just prior to start of camp, Pacioretty was traded to Vegas in exchange for Nick Suzuki and a draft pick.  Tony was discussing the trade with his radio producer, who was having a hard time finding the exact date and trade.  When Tony dropped name my name and site.

Thanks Tony!

https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxpbKlwSIalBZYEIABRGU4zTtG5ksosRwU?si=3mLU9QM2phj012Qn