The Montreal Canadiens aim to tighten their defensive play to regain momentum. Despite recent struggles, they remain optimistic.
Head coach Martin St-Louis emphasized that while the team didn’t play its best last week, they earned three points in three games, a positive takeaway.
St-Louis hopes the players will quickly refocus to avoid slipping further and jeopardizing their playoff hopes. On Monday, the team took advantage of a rare, constraint-free practice to refine their game details.
Players acknowledged minor issues creeping into their game over recent weeks. Despite winning six of their last nine games (6-2-1), the Canadiens have allowed the first goal in nine of their last 12 matches.
Veteran Brendan Gallagher noted the team previously excelled in early-game efforts. However, they’ve become comfortable playing from behind, which might have affected their focus.
“We’ve had strong starts before, but now it’s tougher to explain,” Gallagher said.
Captain Nick Suzuki reinforced St-Louis’ emphasis on strong starts, adding that opposing teams are more prepared to face the “new-look” Canadiens.
“Our opponents bring extra intensity against us,” Suzuki said. “We’ve been one of the league’s best teams this month, and we need to match their energy.”
Suzuki also stressed the importance of tightening defensive play to improve game starts and overall performance.
“Our defense has caused trouble at times,” Suzuki admitted. “Practicing helped us reset and rebuild good habits.”
The Canadiens look to rebound Tuesday when they host the Winnipeg Jets at the Bell Centre.
Injury Updates
Josh Anderson and Kaiden Guhle skipped Monday’s practice for rest. Both played Saturday’s 4-3 overtime loss to the New Jersey Devils.
Guhle blocked three shots and showed signs of discomfort but played 25:11. Anderson, logging 14:11, didn’t record a point.
Coach St-Louis acknowledged the team’s ability to self-correct quickly but noted the challenges of maintaining consistency in a demanding league.
“Building is hard, but maintaining is harder,” St-Louis said. “You must adapt constantly and stay in control without overhauling everything.”
The Canadiens aim to return to their winning ways while improving their game management and defensive strength.
