Something electrifying is happening in Montreal, and it’s coming from a name few expected to hear so early in the season: Zachary Bolduc. While the spotlight often falls on established stars, a new force is quietly reshaping the Canadiens’ identity, game by game. Three matches, three goals, and a level of intensity that has fans and analysts alike scrambling for comparisons—some even invoking the infamous Brad Marchand.

But what is it about Bolduc’s style that’s causing such a stir? Is it just the scoring streak, or is there something deeper at play—a disruptive energy that opponents can’t seem to shake off? Social media is buzzing, radio hosts are making bold declarations, and one particular moment from a recent clash with the Chicago Blackhawks has everyone talking. Could Bolduc really be the next big thing in Montreal, or is this just a fleeting flash of brilliance?

As whispers grow louder and the hype intensifies, the Canadiens seem to have found a new heartbeat in their lineup. But what exactly did Bolduc do to earn these dramatic comparisons—and what does it mean for the future of the team? Read on to discover the full story behind hockey’s newest sensation.

Canadiens forward Zachary Bolduc and Panthers' Brad Marchand

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

Since the start of the 2025-26 season, a certain Zachary Bolduc has continued to impress – both with his intensity and his goal-scoring instinct.

To the point where some fans are already comparing him to Brad Marchand.

It’s clear that the Montreal Canadiens are off to an encouraging start, and that energy clearly comes from their young players.

And among them, Quebec native Zachary Bolduc is already standing out as a revelation.

Three games, three goals.

In fact, I even heard on the radio this morning that he’s the first Canadiens player to score in each of his first three regular-season games since Yanic Perreault in 2001-2002.

Zachary Bolduc becomes the new face of the Montreal Canadiens’ energy

On social media, a clip from the last game against the Chicago Blackhawks drew plenty of reactions.

The BR Open Ice account shared a clip from a physical battle between Montreal and Chicago, and one user commented:

“Bolduc has that Brad Marchand quality to him that just gets under the skin of other players so easily, he’s gonna be so clutch for MTL”

Watching the clip, I see what he means. There’s a bit of a “pest” in him!

Like Marchand, Bolduc plays with a mix of grit, cunning, and skill that can change the tone of a game.

And with his three goals in three games, he’s maintaining a 45-goal pace over 82 games since the Four Nations Tournament break, according to stats compiled by Mathis Therrien on DansLesCoulisses.

One thing’s for sure – Gallagher’s spark seems to have found a natural successor.

And seeing how Bolduc is already disrupting opposing defenses, several teams across the league are likely to remember his name very soon.