The buzz at Montreal’s Bell Centre was palpable during the Canadiens’ home opener, but beneath the roar of the crowd and the excitement of a new season, something curious unfolded that most fans missed.

While all eyes were on the ice, a high-profile visitor quietly made his way into the arena—one whose presence could have major implications not just for the Canadiens, but for Team Canada and the entire NHL landscape.

Whispers began circulating among insiders and journalists, hinting that this wasn’t just a routine scouting trip or a friendly visit. There was a deeper motive, one that could shake up national team selections and perhaps even the future of several rising stars.

With speculation building and questions swirling, the reason behind this unexpected appearance remains shrouded in mystery. Which players drew the attention of this influential figure? What could his observations mean for the upcoming international competitions?

And why is this development flying under the radar, even as seasoned reporters scramble to piece together the clues? As more details emerge and the stakes become clearer, fans are left wondering: what is really happening behind the scenes at Bell Centre, and how might it impact the fate of some of hockey’s brightest talents?

Photo of Canadiens players and Bruins GM

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

It went slightly under the radar with everything that was said during the Montreal Canadiens’ home opener, but an interesting name was spotted.

As reported by TVA Sports journalist Renaud Lavoie, none other than Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney arrived at the Bell Centre earlier this week, and he could be expected to be there again tonight.

Why is Don Sweeney at the Bell Centre, and why is he keeping an eye on certain Montreal Canadiens players?

Once again, Renaud Lavoie gives us the answer.

“Bruins GM, Don Sweeney at Bell Center tonight. He’s scouting for Team Canada.”

– Renaud Lavoie, TVA Sports

That explains it…

Let’s recall that Sweeney was named GM of Team Canada for the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off and AGM for the 2026 Olympics.

He will certainly continue to closely monitor the performances of Montreal Canadiens players such as Noah Dobson, Nick Suzuki, and Samuel Montembeault.

Those are the three main Canadiens players hoping to earn a spot with Team Canada for the upcoming Winter Olympics.

Nick Suzuki, 26 years old, has 6 points in 4 games so far this season and is off to an excellent start.

Noah Dobson, 25 years old, has 2 points in 4 games so far this season and is also having a great start.

Samuel Montembeault, 28 years old, currently holds a 2-1-0 record with a goals-against average of 2.97 and a save percentage of .870.

As for him, his start to the season has been a bit more challenging, but of course, the season is still very young.