The Montreal Canadiens indeed seem to need reinforcements behind the bench.
The idea of recruiting Luke Richardson, recently dismissed by the Chicago Blackhawks, is gaining traction.
Richardson, a former rugged defenseman with 1,417 NHL games under his belt, is known for his defensive skills.
As a coach, he shone during the 2021 Stanley Cup Final with Montreal, and his experience could stabilize a struggling Montreal defense.
Some poor performances highlight the need for a specialized coach to guide young players like Kaiden Guhle and Lane Hutson, who often struggle in critical moments.
With a current record of 0-12 when trailing after two periods, the issue goes beyond a simple lack of talent.
Luke Richardson could provide an organized defensive framework and reassure fans.
While head coach Martin St-Louis has the support of management, additional help, such as Richardson's, could transform a vulnerable team into a more competitive one.
Beyond his coaching skills, Luke Richardson would also bring calm and experienced leadership, a crucial asset for a young team still in a rebuilding phase.
His ability to handle pressure and motivate players has already been demonstrated during his previous stint with the Canadiens.
In a season marked by ups and downs, his influence could not only stabilize the defense but also restore confidence to a group that often appears destabilized in critical moments.
If Kent Hughes decides to act, he might very well call on Cool Hand Luke to stop the defensive bleeding.
POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 29 | 2493 ANSWERS Recently Fired Coach Linked to the Canadiens as Potential Solution to Defensive Struggles Should the Canadiens Hire Luke Richardson as an Assistant Coach? | ||