Caufield says Canadiens are ready for tougher Atlantic Division test
Montreal Canadiens eye a stronger NHL season as Cole Caufield raises expectations See how internal growth and young stars could fuel another playoff push
Cole Caufield says the Montreal Canadiens are entering the new NHL season with higher expectations after their surprise run last year.
Speaking at the NHL/NHLPA player media tour in Las Vegas, Caufield said Montreal learned from its playoff disappointment and will rely on internal growth rather than major offseason changes. The Canadiens finished with 106 points last season and reached the Eastern Conference final before losing to Carolina.
The article notes that several Atlantic Division rivals, including Florida and Toronto, added depth for the 202627 campaign. Montreal, meanwhile, stayed mostly quiet in free agency and is banking on its young core — including Nick Suzuki, Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov — to keep improving as the team pursues another playoff push.