September 26, 2025
On Thursday evening the Montreal Canadiens had their third preseason game for 2025-26. The Toronto Maple Leafs were in town and the result was a stinking 7-2 loss.
Here’s what caught my attention.
The coach is committed to the two top lines.
Marty confirmed it to the media that Kirby Dach would centre Laine and Demidov, and committed that Dach would play in a preseason game. I confess it came sooner than I expected. The top six looks to be Suzuki between Caufield and Slafkovsky, and Dach between Laine and Demidov.
We know exactly what we can expect of that top line. But the coach needs to pay attention to the second, because there is some writing on the wall there.
Dach needs to re-acclimate, and I’m not sure Laine helps.
In this set-up, Dach needs to be the defensive conscience for that line, while also being the guy who plays the boards in the offensive zone, while also trying to re-acclimate to the NHL. That’s not a recipe for success.
I’d switch Laine with Bolduc right now. Play Laine with Newhook and Kapanen on the third line and let Bolduc help the second with his speed, tenacity and defensive awareness.
The injury bug is bugging the Habs again.
Guhle couldn’t play because of an injury. Dobson didn’t return for the third period, and Reinbacher didn’t finish the game. Post-game Marty indicated the injuries were not likely worrisome.
If you’re someone who is wondering why the Habs are not rushing to trade Matheson, it may be connected to how confident they are (not) that some guys can stay healthy.
Montembeault took the opportunity to remind some guys of an old nickname.
Yes, he was Montemblow last night. The defense in front of him was atrocious, but Monty was also awful. I don’t think anyone is worried.
If the coach is worried about urgency, he might want to consider trimming that camp roster.
It’s time. I know they may not want to send many actual NHLers to Toronto, but there are at least a dozen guys still at camp that won’t be going to the NHL or Toronto. The paring down is a message that the urgency is growing.
It’s time.
Hab At Her 