SHOCKING MOVE: MONTREAL CANADIENS MAKE UNEXPECTED ROSTER SHAKE-UP AHEAD OF NEW SEASON…..READ MORE…..

In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, the Montreal Canadiens have made a surprise roster shake-up just weeks before the start of the new NHL season. With expectations high and the pressure mounting, General Manager Kent Hughes and Head Coach Martin St. Louis have made bold decisions that could change the direction of the franchise heading into 2025.

The biggest shock comes with the unexpected reassignment of a few veteran players to the Laval Rocket, the Canadiens’ AHL affiliate. While names haven’t been officially confirmed by the club, inside sources suggest that a handful of experienced players may be on the move to make room for younger talent — signaling a continued focus on rebuilding the team around speed, youth, and energy.

Among the most talked-about names in Montreal right now is Ivan Demidov, the Canadiens’ top prospect who has been turning heads during training camp. Drafted third overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, Demidov has exceeded expectations with his skill, vision, and scoring touch. Many believed he would start the season in Laval to continue his development — but with the latest roster decisions, Demidov now looks poised to make the opening night lineup in Montreal.

Fans have taken to social media to express excitement and confusion in equal measure. Some applaud the management for committing to a younger, faster team, while others worry about the lack of veteran leadership on the ice. Still, with a player like Demidov entering the scene, the Canadiens are clearly banking on raw talent and upside.

“Every team goes through a transition phase, and we’re trying to build something sustainable,” said Kent Hughes in a press conference Tuesday afternoon. “We’re not just thinking about October. We’re thinking about April and beyond.”

In addition to Demidov, other young names like defenseman Logan Mailloux and forward Joshua Roy are reportedly making strong cases to crack the opening roster. This shake-up comes just days after the Canadiens’ 4-2 preseason victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs, where the younger players outshined several veterans.

The move also suggests that the Canadiens may be looking to clear cap space or set the stage for a trade. With rumors swirling about potential deals involving other NHL teams, Montreal could be positioning itself to either bring in a proven veteran or add more draft assets.

For now, fans will have to wait and see how the final roster shapes up as the regular season approaches. One thing is certain: the Canadiens are not playing it safe. This shake-up marks a bold new chapter in Montreal hockey — and whether it pays off or not, the team is sending a clear message to the league: they’re here to rebuild, retool, and rise.