November 23, 2025
On Saturday night the Toronto Maple Leafs were in Montreal to face the Canadiens. Both teams were looking to get their houses back in order on this night, but it was the Habs who prevailed. The result was a 5-2 win.
Several things caught my attention.
Noah Dobson finally notched a couple.
He was an excellent acquisition by Kent Hughes this summer, and he has formed an effective top pair with Matheson. But last night he showed off his big shot… twice. You could tell it was coming in recent games when it’s felt like he’s been shooting more.
Dobson has settled in to his new team nicely and is quietly on pace for just under 60 points this season, while facing the opposition’s top players every night.
Anderson might win the Rocket Richard Trophy if every game was against the Leafs.
Josh Anderson had a great game against Toronto, and it feels like that’s a statement we’ve made a few times during his tenure with the Habs. With all the Quebecers across the league who play their best games against the Habs, it’s nice to have a Burlington boy who shines against the Leafs.
It’s also possible that his new linemate helped.
If the Canadiens sign Texier, he shouldn’t replace Xhekaj.
In just under 10 minutes of ice time last night, Flo was useful. He assisted on an Anderson goal and brought a physical presence to the line-up. He has been the best call up so far this season. Davidson lacks speed, Roy lacks hockey sense.
I would give Xhekaj more than a cup of coffee beside Evans and Anderson and see what he can do. If Texier is a Hab before the day is done, I’d add him to the 4th line and see if he can bring more than the other two.
This much fuss about Kampf and Texier is a real commentary on the clog in the market and the injury troubles teams are having. Neither is saving the season for the teams they join.
The Habs really needed this win, and it couldn’t have come against a better opponent.
Hab At Her 