As the Montreal Canadiens close the chapter on a season filled with hope and renewed energy, the excitement among fans is palpable. For the first time in four years, the storied franchise made its way back to the playoffs, signaling a promising new era led by a core of talented young players. Optimism is running high throughout the city, with many believing that the Canadiens are finally turning the corner and heading toward sustained success.
Yet, amid the celebration and anticipation for what’s next, a voice of caution has emerged. Former Canadiens goaltender and award-winning NHL veteran José Théodore has stepped forward with a sobering assessment of the team’s future. In a recent radio appearance, Théodore raised questions about whether the current momentum is sustainable and if the team’s young stars are truly ready to shoulder the expectations that now rest on their shoulders.
His candid remarks about the performances of rising prospects like Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov have sparked debate among fans and analysts alike. As the Canadiens look ahead to the next season, Théodore’s perspective serves as a reminder that the path to greatness is rarely straightforward—and that tough decisions may still lie ahead.

Photo credit: Imagn Images
The Montreal Canadiens just wrapped up a season that went beyond expectations, making their first playoff appearance in four years.
The young players within the organization are gaining momentum, and just about everyone agrees that the Canadiens are trending upward.
However, according to José Théodore, it’s too early to celebrate, and a setback is possible in 2025-2026.
During a recent appearance on 98.5, the 2002 Hart and Vezina Trophy winner shared some doubts about the Canadiens’ chances of making the playoffs in 2026.
“Will the Canadiens make the playoffs next year?
That’s a very good question.
I wouldn’t be surprised [if they missed].
I’m not ready to bet $2 that we’ll make the playoffs next year unless some changes are made.”
José Théodore
José Théodore Criticizes Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov Over Their Playoff Performances
As also reported by DansLesCoulisses, Théodore isn’t getting overly excited about Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov either, even going as far as criticizing two of the organization’s young gems.
“He made several mistakes that you just can’t make in the playoffs, he committed turnovers, and he picked poor moments to jump into the attack.
Demidov has exceptional talent.
But from what I saw in 5-6 games, he needs to spend some time in Laval to cut his teeth, because right now he hasn’t shown me enough to deserve a guaranteed job with the Canadiens.”
José Théodore
Let’s just say Théodore probably isn’t winning over many fans with those comments.
He even goes so far as to suggest sending Ivan Demidov down to the Laval Rocket, no less.
Do you agree with him?
News
In a STUNNING announcement, Kent Hughes breaks his silence with a GAME-CHANGING update on Carey Price’s trade situation, sparking PANIC and wild speculation throughout the hockey world. The SENSATIONAL news reveals secret talks and unexpected developments that threaten to turn the Canadiens’ season upside down in an instant.
The future of Carey Price’s contract has become the hottest topic in Montreal, with speculation swirling around when, where, and…
Maple Leafs analyst EXPOSES a SHOCKING and HOSTILE clash with Mitch Marner’s camp, sending Toronto fans into a frenzy! The explosive confrontation uncovers SECRETS and hidden tensions that could THREATEN the team’s stability, leaving insiders scrambling to make sense of the drama shaking the Leafs’ locker room.
The drama surrounding former Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner shows no signs of cooling off, even after his high-profile…
TVA Sports journalist IGNITES CONTROVERSY by boldly CHALLENGING Kent Hughes in the middle of the Carey Price trade frenzy! This EXPLOSIVE confrontation could turn the Canadiens’ future upside down, sending shockwaves through the NHL as insiders scramble to uncover the TRUTH behind the heated debate and what it means for Montreal.
The Montreal Canadiens are at the center of a swirling controversy this week, as speculation intensifies around the future of…
San Jose journalist STUNS fans by proposing a mind-blowing 4-PIECE TRADE between the Sharks and Habs that could completely SHAKE UP the NHL landscape! If this SENSATIONAL deal goes through, both teams could see their fortunes FLIP overnight—leaving fans everywhere on the edge of their seats, desperate for details.
The hockey world is buzzing with speculation and anticipation as rumors swirl around a potential blockbuster trade involving one of…
Kent Hughes DROPS A BOMBSHELL, admitting for the first time that a Carey Price TRADE IS POSSIBLE—but only under one EXPLOSIVE condition that could change the fate of the Montreal Canadiens forever! Fans are left STUNNED, as speculation erupts about what this shocking revelation means for the team’s future.
The Montreal Canadiens have been surrounded by swirling rumors and intense speculation all season, but nothing has captured the attention…
Kent Hughes finally BREAKS HIS SILENCE, revealing the shocking details behind THREE COMPLETED Canadiens trades—including one described as a HOME RUN DEAL that could transform Montreal’s future! Fans are left STUNNED by the bold moves, as insiders scramble to analyze the IMPACT of Hughes’ game-changing decisions on the NHL landscape.
Montreal Canadiens fans have been waiting for answers, and now, at last, the silence has been broken. In a rare…
End of content
No more pages to load