What observers say
“I told you so,” exclaimed Cole Caufield after the Montreal Canadiens secured a decisive 5-2 victory against the Carolina Hurricanes on March 25, 2026. This win not only showcased the Canadiens’ talent but also highlighted the significant contributions of their rookie players, particularly Ivan Demidov.
Demidov, who scored a goal and provided an assist during the game, has been a key player for the Canadiens this season. His performance has placed him in a tie for the rookie points lead, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments. As the Canadiens push for a playoff spot, Demidov’s contributions have become increasingly vital.
Goalie Jakub Dobeš also made headlines with a career-high 41 saves, earning his 23rd win of the season and leading all NHL rookie goalies. His stellar performance has been a cornerstone for the Canadiens, who are in a tight playoff race with seven teams within three points. “It’s a lot of onus on young goalies to be in these moments down the stretch with how tight things are,” noted Noah Dobson, reflecting on the pressure faced by rookie players.
Oliver Kapanen added to the excitement by scoring his 21st goal of the season, tying him for second in goals among rookies, just one behind teammate Matthew Schaefer. Kapanen’s consistent scoring has been a bright spot for the Canadiens, who are currently tied with the Penguins and Bruins at 86 points in the standings.
Following the victory, the Canadiens saw their playoff chances increase from 84% to an impressive 92%. This surge in confidence is crucial as they prepare for their next game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The team’s young core, including Dobeš, Demidov, and Kapanen, is proving to be a formidable force as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
Head coach Martin St. Louis emphasized the importance of taking things one step at a time. “You try to get it back one shift at a time, one action at a time,” he said, highlighting the focus required to maintain their momentum. The Canadiens’ ability to rely on their rookies during this critical phase of the season speaks volumes about the team’s depth and future potential.
As the Canadiens continue their playoff push, fans are hopeful that the combination of experienced players and emerging talents like Demidov will lead to a successful postseason. With the stakes higher than ever, the contributions of these young athletes will be closely watched in the coming games.
