We’re halfway through the season, and the Montreal Canadiens sit in a playoff spot through 49 games, raising real questions about expectations, sustainability, and next steps.

In this mid-season review, we break down:
How the Canadiens have played through 49 games and what their current playoff position says about their progress so far
The performances of the team’s top 5 point scorers, and how much the offence is being driven by the core versus depth contributors
Injuries & lineup impact — how the returns of Kirby Dach, Patrik Laine, and Alex Newhook affect the current lineup, including line combinations, ice time distribution, and internal competition up front
Trade deadline outlook — with the Canadiens in the playoff picture, we discuss whether management should be aggressive buyers, make targeted additions, or stay patient and protect the long-term plan

Is this team ahead of schedule, or is caution still the smart play? We give a clear, honest evaluation of where the Canadiens stand and what the second half of the season could look like.

️ Like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments. Should the Canadiens be buyers at the deadline?

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In Episode 110 of the Habs Culture podcast, Justin and Liam break down a huge week for the Montreal Canadiens. They start with Cole Caufield’s clutch overtime heroics against Seattle and Nashville, discussing how his game-winning goals reflect the Habs’ growing resilience early in the season. The guys then dive into Lane Hutson’s massive eight-year, $70.8 million extension — analyzing the deal, what it means for the team’s long-term direction, and the expectations it sets for the young defenseman. To wrap up, Justin and Liam discuss how strong early performances from Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Lane Hutson could make a serious case for each of them to represent Canada and the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

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In this episode, Justin and Liam discuss the Habs’ first three games of the season against the Leafs, Red Wings, and Blackhawks — and all the early storylines that have fans talking. Zack Bolduc has been one of the biggest surprises, standing out with his energy and scoring touch, while the powerplay continues to sputter, raising questions about whether Martin St-Louis will make adjustments before the home opener.

The guys also dive into the latest on Lane Hutson’s contract situation, as reports suggest extension talks with the Canadiens have slowed due to differences over the dollar amount. Could a deal be finalized soon, or will the standoff continue into the season?

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In Episode 108, Justin and Liam discuss the Canadiens’ projected lineup for the 2025-26 season, including forward lines, defensive pairings, and special teams units. A full look at how the Habs could line up heading into opening night.

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In episode #107, Justin and Liam break down the blockbuster move bringing Noah Dobson to Montreal and how he reshapes the Canadiens’ defensive core. The guys dive into their projected lines and power play units for the upcoming season and debate whether the Habs are still on the hunt for a true second-line center—could it be Kyrou, Granlund, or McTavish? Plus, they wrap up with quick hits on the biggest winners and losers from the 2025 NHL Draft.

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It’s report card time! 🎓 In this episode, Justin and Liam grade every Montreal Canadiens player on their 2024-25 season. From standout performances to players who underdelivered, we break down the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

Who earned an A+? Who needs improvement? Tune in to hear our full breakdown and let us know how you’d grade the Habs this season.

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In Episode #105, Justin and Liam preview a pivotal Game 3 as the Canadiens return home to the Bell Centre, down 2-0 in the series against the Capitals. Can the energy of a full-capacity crowd spark a comeback? The boys break down key matchups, adjustments the Habs need to make, and what’s at stake as Montreal looks to shift the momentum before it’s too late.

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In this episode, Justin and Liam dive into the freshly set 2025 NHL playoff bracket, offering their predictions and insights for each matchup. They discuss:​

The Montreal Canadiens' first-round challenge against the top-seeded Washington Capitals, led by Alex Ovechkin, who recently surpassed Wayne Gretzky's goal record. ​

The Battle of Ontario between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators, highlighting the Leafs' quest to overcome past playoff hurdles.

The Western Conference showdowns, including the Winnipeg Jets' pursuit to break the Presidents' Trophy curse and the recurring rivalry between the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings. ​

Tune in as they analyze each series, share their picks for potential upsets, and predict who will hoist the Stanley Cup this year.

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