Several elements can explain the recent success of the Canadians. We can think of the return to health of Patrik Laine, the acquisition of Alexandre Carrier, the emergence of Jakub Dobes, the rise of Lane Hutson and the attack which is now spread over four trios.
I would add another element and it is the most important in my eyes.
In my opinion, it is the way the team behaves defensively that is the most important point that has improved in recent weeks. The team manages to defend itself better against its opponents. Not just in the defensive zone, but everywhere on the ice.
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Martin St-Louis’ squad is better at taking the puck away from the opponent, at aborting plays and limiting costly turnovers.
This improvement is reflected in the goals allowed. In October and November, the CH gave on average 3.74 goals per match while it has allowed 2.88 since December 1, which is one goal less on average per match.
I passed this remark on to Martin St-Louis when I spoke to him last Saturday. I also asked him if there was a trigger to explain his team’s improved defensive play.
“The October 31 game in Washington,” he answered without hesitation.
That evening, the Habs collapsed in the third period and lost 6-3 to the Capitals. After the match, St-Louis made a statement that went around the province. “We vomited on each other,” he said without restraint.
-So why is the October 31 match a pivotal match according to him? “Until this match, we said the right things, but nothing changed. After the match in Washington, we lost 3-1, 3-2 and 5-3,” recalled the Canadiens head coach.
“In the matches that followed, we lost a little attack, but I thought we were better defensively. Currently, we have found a balance between attack and defense. It’s satisfying. We can compete,” he told me.
Since the October 31 game, the Canadiens have a record of 20-13-3, the 11th best performance in the entire National League.
Despite thick and thin, Martin St-Louis remained standing and continued to exercise leadership over his young players. Moreover, the leadership of St-Louis is not new. I had a chat recently with Victor Hedman who played with St. Louis for five seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
“He is an exceptional leader,” he told me admiringly. His work ethic, preparation and attention to detail were off the charts when I played with him. I am convinced that it has been the same since he was head coach of the Canadiens,” recalled Hedman, who is now the captain of the Lightning.
Hedman also added that St. Louis’ understanding of the game was on another level. “He’s super smart and I can understand why his players love him so much. I have so many nice things to say about Martin St-Louis. I owe him a lot,” he concluded.
The turnaround in the Canadiens’ season was unexpected. Canadians are in the mix. Let’s hope this continues.
Damn that feels good
