The Montreal Canadiens’ defensive lineup has never been short on drama, but a recent podcast episode has ignited a debate that few saw coming.

Analyst Grant McCagg, known for his candid takes, made a statement that sent ripples through the fanbase, challenging conventional wisdom about the team’s future on the blue line. His comments didn’t just praise a rising young defenseman—they boldly shifted the spotlight away from a player many consider a cornerstone of Montreal’s defense.

With the season approaching and expectations high, McCagg’s ranking of Jayden Struble ahead of Kaiden Guhle has fans and experts alike questioning what they thought they knew.

As clips of his passionate analysis circulate online, the conversation has quickly escalated, pulling in opinions from all corners of the hockey world. Is this a case of fresh talent eclipsing established skill, or is there more beneath the surface that only insiders can see?

While McCagg’s arguments highlight intensity and game sense, others remain loyal to Guhle’s steady presence. The debate is far from settled—and the full story behind these bold claims and the reactions they’ve sparked is one every Canadiens supporter will want to explore.

Montreal Canadiens' Kaiden Guhle

Photo credit: NHLPA

In a recent episode of the HabsCast podcast, analyst Grant McCagg surprised many Montreal Canadiens fans with a bold statement about two key defensemen.

He highlighted young defenseman Jayden Struble, even going so far as to rank him ahead of Kaiden Guhle in the team’s hierarchy.

Unsurprisingly, this comment sparked a lot of reactions, especially in a context where Guhle is often seen as one of Montreal’s defensive pillars.

He even claimed that Struble’s game reading and physical presence could surpass Guhle’s impact.

Here’s the clip where he talks about this topic:

Grant McCagg Ranks Struble Ahead of Guhle and Sparks Debate Among Canadiens Fans

In his analysis, also shared by DansLesCoulisses, McCagg didn’t hesitate to praise Struble after his matchup against Max Domi.

On his X account, he also stated:

“I loved Struble coming to Lane’s defence when Domi got physical with him, and Strubes was a pain in the ass to Domi the rest of the night, pounding him every chance he got.”

He went on to explain that Struble not only defended Lane Hutson but also covered for a few of his teammate’s mistakes.

“He also covered up for Lane after a couple of giveaways, and killed penalties and protected the lead with aplomb. His first two preseason games have been excellent.” – Grant McCagg

This commentary really highlights his defensive value and intensity on the ice.

For my part, I probably should have mentioned this earlier, but I don’t agree with McCagg.

I love the work Kaiden Guhle is doing with the Canadiens, and I believe he remains a central piece of the team’s future.

But I have to admit that Struble’s intensity and toughness appeal to me a lot.