“The blueprint is already visible, already working, and sitting right down the 401,” said a source close to the Montreal Canadiens’ management. This sentiment captures the essence of what general manager Kent Hughes and his colleague Jeff Gorton have achieved since taking charge in January 2022.
While the Toronto Maple Leafs struggle—finishing with 78 points last season after a promising 108 points in 2025—Hughes has led Montreal to a remarkable turnaround. The Canadiens improved from 91 points in 2025 to 106 points this season, showcasing their commitment to a long-term vision that contrasts sharply with their rivals.
The Canadiens haven’t lifted the Stanley Cup since 1993, but they are building something special. With a young roster and a deep pipeline of prospects, including first overall pick Juraj Slafkovský from the 2022 draft, fans are beginning to see hope. In contrast, the Maple Leafs last celebrated their championship victory back in 1967—a staggering 59 years ago.
Hughes and Gorton’s strategy stands out not just in results but in their approach. They made moves grounded in an accurate assessment of their needs. As one insider noted, “Montreal has never made that mistake,” referring to the missteps seen in Toronto’s recent management decisions.
Despite not winning a playoff series yet under Hughes and Gorton, there’s an air of optimism surrounding Montreal. Their record last season was 40-31-11—a solid foundation for growth. Meanwhile, Toronto’s decline by 30 points in just one season raises questions about their direction.
The Canadiens were the last team to qualify for the playoffs in 2023, but their journey is just beginning. With four picks in the first three rounds of the upcoming draft, they are poised to continue building on their promising foundation.
As fans gather at Bell Centre this season, there’s a palpable sense of excitement about what lies ahead for Kent Hughes and his team. The next steps are crucial as they aim for playoff success and beyond—something that has eluded them for far too long.
