Despite recent struggles, Montreal Canadiens players Brendan Gallagher and Sam Montembeault are unlikely to feature in the team’s rebounding crop for 2026-27, as both appear poised to depart via trade. At 34, Gallagher’s ice time dwindled to 12:21 per game in 2025-26, while Montembeault faces a backup role behind emerging netminder Jakub Dobes, who posted a playoff-best 13.3 goals-saved-above-expected-per-60. With top prospect Jacob Fowler also in the pipeline, the goaltending depth chart leaves little room for a rebound.
Among projected staples, Phillip Danault ranks first. Acquired mid-season from Los Angeles, the former Hab rekindled chemistry with six goals and six assists down the stretch, then dominated the playoffs with 10 points in 19 games. While age limits a return to his prime form, his defensive acumen remains vital under coach Martin St. Louis.
Noah Dobson’s 47-point campaign quietly improved on his New York Islanders output, despite playing behind Lane Hutson on the power play. His even-strength production matched his final Islanders season totals. Slated for an eight-year extension, the 26-year-old defenseman could elevate further upon fully recovering from a playoff hand injury.
Kaiden Guhle’s rookie campaign was marred by a fractured adductor muscle limiting him to two goals and 11 points in 39 games. Despite ranking last among Canadiens defenders in Corsi For percentage (45.4%), his two-way awareness remains appealing. Staying healthy—he’s missed 40% of games since 2022—is critical for unlocking the progression expected from a 24-year-old entering his prime.
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