"The Habs are fourth in the NHL in goals scored per game and in total points, while their power play is eighth in the league. Though the defensive side of the ice needs work - their penalty kill is just 20th and they give up the tenth-most goals in the league - it's clear the Habs are capable of outscoring their defensive woes."
"One could reinforce this argument by using the Phillip Danault trade as the Habs' means of addressing issues at centre. At the same time, it's also worth noting that general manager Kent Hughes hasn't been one to force a move; he's only made moves that he believes can truly improve the team while refusing to force moves that could present themselves."
"I lean slightly towards the former argument. Yes, players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield are still in their mid-twenties and have much of their prime ahead of them. It's also worth noting that young prospects like Ivan Demidov and Lane Hutson are only just getting started in the NHL; when combining these two statements, one can see that the Habs' window is only just reopening."
Montreal sits third in the Atlantic Division and three points behind the division leader, powered by one of the NHL's top offenses. The Habs rank fourth in goals per game and total points, and their power play ranks eighth. Defensive issues persist: the penalty kill ranks 20th and the team allows the tenth-most goals. Management has addressed centre depth previously with the Phillip Danault trade, and general manager Kent Hughes has avoided forcing moves, preferring only transactions that clearly improve the roster. Young players and prospects indicate the team's window is reopening, while deadline additions could shore up weaknesses and bolster playoff durability.
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