Before camp started, I didn’t see a world where Florian Xhekaj could carve out a roster spot, given that with the Chris Kreider acquisition the Canadiens already have 13 forwards. But with the Deputy’s performances since the start of camp, I’m no longer sure that’s true.. One thing I am sure of: Florian has just made Kent Hughes’ job a lot more complicated with his two preseason games.
In my preview yesterday, I said the third-line forwards were fighting not to be the 13th forward for the season opener in Toronto, and in my opinion only Alexandre Texier separated himself from that line. It was another tough night for Kirby Dach, who besides one good scoring chance had a very ordinary evening. Dach got time on the second power-play unit, and it was anything but convincing. He turned the puck over several times, killing offensive-zone sequences more than once (4). As I wrote after Montreal’s elimination last season: “I turned the page on No. 77 a long time ago, and I’d like to see the Habs do the same.”
A lot of you don’t like the contract given to Kirby Dach this offseason. Still, Kirby is only 25, he’s 6-foot-4, and he was the 3rd overall pick in 2019. Kent Hughes simply couldn’t let him walk for nothing, especially considering what it cost to acquire him.
Dach wasn’t the only one who didn’t impress me last night. Trois-Rivières native Zachary Bolduc also had a rough game, with more than a few questionable passes. I expected more from him, especially playing at home in front of a crowd that gave him a warm welcome. That said, Bolduc still brought something Dach didn’t: he got physically involved and bothered the Senators all night. Bottom line, I want more from Bolduc in the final preseason game Saturday.
Besides Florian Xhekaj, who looks determined to crack the lineup, David Reinbacher had another strong game, this time next to Lane Hutson. With Kaiden Guhle out and two good showings from the Austrian, I’m convinced Reino will start the season with the big club.
I tweeted yesterday that “1st shot Monty is back” after Ottawa’s first goal, but in Montembeault’s defense, Jayden Struble certainly didn’t help him. Monty did his job the rest of the time he was on the ice.
Speaking of Struble, even though he scored Montreal’s first goal to tie the game, I’m one of those who think he’ll be the 7th defenseman for the season opener against the Leafs in Toronto on September 29.
The Habs’ next games aren’t until Saturday, and it will be interesting to see if Kent Hughes is tempted to make room for Florian Xhekaj. I highly doubt Marty St-Louis will start the season with 14 forwards… though it’s not impossible.
What were your takeaways from last night?
Have a good rest of the day, everyone.
Go Habs Go!