Montreal Canadiens: Slafkovský Eyes Greatness, Penalty Kill Woes, and a Young Core Taking Shape
Juraj Slafkovský isn’t just skating through his early NHL career-he’s chasing something bigger. The Canadiens’ forward has his sights set on a legacy, and he’s not shy about naming the kind of career he’s aiming for: Marian Hossa’s.
That’s not a small ask. Hossa was a three-time Stanley Cup champion, a two-way force, and a Hall of Famer.
But for Slafkovský, it’s not about mimicking-it’s about matching that level of impact. “I’ve always wanted to be successful.
I’m always striving for perfection,” he said. That kind of mindset is exactly what Montreal fans want to hear from a player the franchise is hoping to build around.
And so far, Slafkovský is embracing everything that comes with being a Canadien. He’s made it clear he loves playing in Montreal and doesn’t get why the city has a reputation as a tough sell for free agents.
It’s a refreshing take, especially from a young player who could easily be overwhelmed by the pressure-cooker market. Instead, he’s leaning into the challenge-and loving it.
While Slafkovský is focused on the long game, the Canadiens are still dealing with the growing pains that come with a young roster. Jake Evans didn’t sugarcoat it after a tough loss in Boston, pointing directly to the penalty kill as the difference-maker-and taking personal responsibility for the breakdown.
That kind of accountability speaks volumes in a locker room still finding its identity. Montreal’s penalty kill has had its moments this season, but lapses like the one against the Bruins are reminders that there’s still work to be done.
General manager Kent Hughes, for his part, sees the bigger picture. He’s not expecting overnight success, but he does believe this young core-led by names like Slafkovský, Cole Caufield, and captain Nick Suzuki-is starting to carve out its own style.
It’s not always consistent, but there’s a foundation forming. And that’s what this season is really about: development, chemistry, and finding out what kind of team the Canadiens want to be.
Speaking of Suzuki, he continues to be a steady presence down the middle and a player who makes the game look deceptively simple. Asked how he manages to be so effective, Suzuki offered a modest response, but the truth is, it’s a mix of elite hockey IQ, smooth hands, and a calmness that’s rare for a player his age. He’s not flashy, but he’s efficient-and that’s what makes him so valuable.
There’s still a long road ahead for this Canadiens group, but the pieces are starting to align. Slafkovský’s ambition, Suzuki’s consistency, and a front office preaching patience all point to a team that’s building something sustainable. It might not be a finished product yet, but the blueprint is starting to show.