The Montreal Canadiens are thriving offensively this season, potentially reaching goal totals not seen in over three decades. If they maintain their current pace, the team could finish the 2025-2026 season with 293 goals, the highest since the 1992-1993 season when they scored 326 goals en route to a championship. Four players achieved over 80 points back then, including Vincent Damphousse and Kirk Muller. Here are five players poised to reach significant milestones in the Canadiens’ history.
Nick Suzuki’s Quest for 100 Points
Nick Suzuki is on track to potentially eclipse the 100-point mark. If he continues at his current scoring pace, he could come very close, a feat not achieved since Mats Naslund in the 1985-1986 season. Currently producing at a rate of 98 points for an entire season, Suzuki has netted 24 points in his last 15 games. He is expected to surpass 90 points for the first time in his career.
Historical Context
- Last players with over 90 points: Pierre Turgeon (96) and Vincent Damphousse (94) in 1995-1996.
- Potential for 70 assists: Could become the first since Guy Lafleur in 1979-1980.
Cole Caufield’s Goal-Scoring Chase
Cole Caufield is also a player to watch. With 49 goals projected for this season, he could break the 50-goal mark, something not accomplished by a Canadiens player since Stéphane Richer in 1989-1990. Achieving this milestone would end a 36-year drought.
Notable Records
- Caufield may reach 40 goals this month, a milestone last reached by Damphousse 32 years ago.
Lane Hutson: Breaking Through as a Defenseman
Lane Hutson has proven his prowess in his second NHL season. Already surpassing his rookie season’s total of 66 points, Hutson is on track to potentially become only the second defenseman in the franchise’s history to score 80 points in a single season, following Larry Robinson.
Chasing Records
- Potential to break Robinson’s assist record for a defenseman, currently holding at 66 assists.
- Could become the first defenseman to reach 70 points since Chris Chelios in 1988-1989.
Jakub Dobes and Rookie Goalkeeping
Jakub Dobes, despite a goals-against average over 3.00, has recorded an impressive record of 20 wins, seeking to take the number one goalie position. He is four wins away from becoming the first rookie goalie since Wayne Thomas to secure over 30 wins across two seasons.
Ivan Demidov: A Unique Rookie Contribution
Ivan Demidov, while not likely to set the rookie points record, could allow the Canadiens to make history. Finishing the season with approximately 63 points would enable the team to feature two rookies with at least 60 points in consecutive seasons. This would be a first in the 117-year history of the franchise.
These five players are indeed on the verge of achieving milestones unseen in Montreal for years, showcasing the Canadiens’ bright future.
