“Pressure Mounts on Martin St. Louis as Canadiens Struggle Early in Season”
Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis is under increasing pressure following a rough start to the 2024-25 season, with the team currently last in the Atlantic Division and holding a disappointing 2-4-1 record over seven games.
However, if the Canadiens are to bring in a new head coach, it may require St. Louis to step down voluntarily. Jean-Charles Lajoie, speaking on QUB Radio on Oct. 23, suggested that the Canadiens “will never fire” St. Louis, implying that he may need to leave the position by mutual agreement. “Martin St. Louis won’t get fired,” Lajoie noted. “He’ll resign by mutual agreement when the time comes.”
Lajoie attributes this to St. Louis’ strong relationship with general manager Kent Hughes and executive vice president Jeff Gorton, which he believes makes management reluctant to dismiss him outright. “They’re too close to let him go,” Lajoie said, adding that if the poor form persists, a departure may be inevitable.
Analyst Tony Marinaro also voiced concerns over St. Louis’ leadership following a 7-2 loss to the New York Rangers, questioning if he is the right fit for the job. Marinaro’s remarks echoed a broader sentiment among fans and analysts who find it hard to ignore the poor start. Whether by resignation or dismissal, it seems that continued underperformance could bring St. Louis’ time with the Canadiens to anend.