Another high draft pick added for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens in 2025, according to THN

PUBLICATION

Elias Adaime
October 6, 2024 (4:08 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Canadiens' training camp opened with a sense of hope, as many within the organization say the team will be in the race.

However, this optimism isn't shared around the league, as numerous analysts think the club will once again finish near the bottom of the standings. This is the case for The Hockey News website, which recently revealed its predictions for the upcoming season. As you can see below, they expect another miserable season for the Habs...

The Canadiens Still Dead Last in the Atlantic According to The Hockey News

Another Disappointing Season in Montreal and Another High Draft Pick?

Here is their projected ranking:

1- Florida Panthers
2- Toronto Maple Leafs
3- Boston Bruins
4- Ottawa Senators
5- Tampa Bay Lightning
6- Detroit Red Wings
7- Buffalo Sabres
8- Montreal Canadiens

Adam Proteau, who made these predictions, states that Kent Hughes is doing a great job of making his team competitive. He has made solid additions, both via trades and through the draft. However, it's still not enough for the group to become a playoff team. According to Proteau, they are still two, maybe even three seasons away from achieving that goal.

«Under the guidance of coach Martin St. Louis, the Canadiens will be tougher to play against, but they also have a long way to go before they can fight for a playoff spot. Internal development will be key. It would be a major feat to get out of the Atlantic basement, but even if Montreal stays at the bottom of the division, better days are clearly ahead.»

The Hockey News

Personally, I find Proteau to be quite harsh on the Habs. Yes, the team is still far from being a playoff contender, but to place them at the bottom of the Atlantic Division raises some doubts for me.

Last year, before the season started, the journalist placed the Vancouver Canucks at 6th place in the Pacific Division. However, they ended the season in 1st place in the division with 109 points. It just shows how difficult the prediction game can be!

Nonetheless, regardless of the final standings for the Canadiens, I want to see clear progress from the players and increased intensity. If the team gives its fans a good show and a real chance to win each game, it will be a successful season!

In any case, if this prediction comes true, the Montreal Canadiens will once again have a high draft pick, and the lottery will be interesting to watch once more.

Imagine if the Habs manage to get their hands on James Hagens before finally completing their rebuild officially.