Canadiens Notebook: Bolduc Feeling the Pressure, Slafkovský Emerging, and Roster Decisions Loom
With the Montreal Canadiens inching closer to a roster crunch, Zachary Bolduc knows the clock is ticking. The young forward is skating with urgency, aware that his window to make a lasting impression is narrowing.
In just five games, Bolduc will lose his waiver exemption-meaning if the Canadiens want to send him down, he’d have to clear waivers first. That adds a layer of pressure, not just for him, but for the front office too.
Every shift matters now.
And it’s not just Bolduc feeling the heat. Montreal’s forward group is getting crowded, and decisions are coming.
Whether it’s about who stays, who goes, or who sits, the Canadiens will soon have to make some tough calls. Bolduc’s recent play suggests he understands exactly what’s at stake.
Meanwhile, there’s a potential wrinkle in the Patrik Laine situation. The Canadiens could opt to send him on a conditioning stint in the AHL without activating him off injured reserve. That’s a strategic move that would give Laine some game action without forcing an immediate roster shuffle-something that could be valuable for both the player and the team as he works his way back into form.
On the brighter side of things, Montreal may have finally found the power forward they’ve long been searching for. Juraj Slafkovský is turning heads this season, and not just in Montreal.
Across the league, he’s being recognized as one of the most improved players in the NHL. The former No. 1 pick is starting to put it all together-his physicality, his instincts, and his growing confidence are starting to match the potential that made him such a high draft selection.
It’s not just flashes anymore; it’s consistency. And that’s a game-changer for the Canadiens.
Behind the scenes, the chemistry is building too. Kaiden Guhle and Lane Hutson recently sat down for a one-on-one chat, getting to know each other better as they continue to grow into key pieces of Montreal’s blue line.
Guhle’s steady presence and Hutson’s dynamic offensive instincts could form a potent pairing for years to come. These kinds of off-ice connections matter-especially for a young core looking to grow together.
Speaking of offensive instincts, Pascal Vincent has his eyes on Sean Farrell. The Canadiens coach is emphasizing Farrell’s offensive game, hoping to unlock the skill set that could earn him a full-time NHL role.
Farrell has always had the talent, and now it’s about tailoring his game to fit the pace and physicality of the league. Vincent’s focus is clear: give Farrell the tools and confidence to thrive-not just survive-at the next level.
The Canadiens are in an interesting place right now. There’s a mix of urgency and optimism, pressure and promise. With young talent pushing for spots and veterans working their way back, the next few weeks could go a long way in shaping how this roster looks-not just for the rest of this season, but for the seasons to come.