Montreal Canadiens: Offseason Buzz, Rising Stars & Future Outlook — June 2, 2025
As of June 2, 2025, the Montreal Canadiens are making waves in the NHL with a mix of standout rookie performances, key roster moves, and speculative trade discussions that have fans buzzing.
After securing their first playoff appearance since 2021, the Habs are entering the offseason with momentum and ambition.
🔥 Rising Stars Fuel Optimism
One of the brightest spots in Montreal’s 2024–25 campaign has been rookie defenseman Lane Hutson. The 2022 second-round pick posted an impressive 60-point season, a mark not achieved by a rookie blueliner since Nicklas Lidström in 1991–92.
His elite skating, hockey IQ, and offensive flair have not only earned him a Calder Trophy nomination but also cemented his role as a foundational piece for the Canadiens’ future.
Another young star on the horizon is Ivan Demidov, the club’s 2024 fifth-overall draft pick. Playing in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg, Demidov has been shortlisted for Rookie of the Year honors.
His high-end offensive tools and mature two-way game have Canadiens fans and scouts excited about his potential NHL impact as early as next season.
Additionally, Montreal locked in young defenseman Kaiden Guhle to a six-year, \$33.3 million extension, solidifying their blue line for years to come. Guhle’s physical presence and responsible play have made him a reliable fixture in the top four.
However, not all the news is positive—forward Rafaël Harvey-Pinard will miss four months following surgery for a fractured leg. His absence will be felt, especially after becoming a steady contributor on the team’s third line.
🧠 Trade Chatter & Roster Strategy
With the offseason underway, rumors are swirling. Among the most attention-grabbing is speculation involving **Sidney Crosby.
Though some fans fantasize about the Penguins legend donning the CH, analysts widely regard such a trade as improbable given Crosby’s longstanding ties to Pittsburgh.
More grounded are reports linking the Canadiens to Bo Horvat, a proven scorer who could help address the team’s need for consistent offense. While talks remain speculative, the move would signal a clear “win-now” shift for the club.
Veteran goaltender Carey Price is also at the center of major speculation. Although beloved in Montreal, management may be exploring a buyout or trade to free up cap space as part of a broader rebuild-retool hybrid strategy.
🏒 Season Recap & Next Steps
The Canadiens finished the 2024–25 season with a 40–31–11 record, good enough for a return to the playoffs. Despite their first-round exit at the hands of the Washington Capitals, the team’s performance marked a meaningful step forward from recent struggles.
As Montreal heads into the offseason, the mix of young talent, smart contract moves, and potential high-profile acquisitions suggests a team on the rise. With the right pieces falling into place, the Canadiens could soon return to serious contender status.