The Montreal Canadiens are gearing up for a training camp unlike any in recent memory, with anticipation and intrigue swirling around nearly every position on the roster.

While much of the attention has been focused on the usual hot-button topics—who will solidify the second line, which goaltender will claim the coveted backup spot, and which defenseman will seize those final openings—there’s an undercurrent of drama quietly brewing that could redefine the team’s entire season.

Beneath the surface, a high-stakes battle is emerging for one of the most coveted roles in hockey: a spot on the Canadiens’ first line. With new faces arriving and young talent developing faster than anyone predicted, the door is suddenly wide open for a shakeup at the top.

Whispers from inside the organization suggest that a surprising contender is ready to challenge an established star, and the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the team’s chemistry and success.

As training camp approaches, the stakes have never been higher, and the answers to these burning questions remain shrouded in secrecy. Who will rise, who will fall, and which bold move might change the Canadiens’ fortunes for good? The answers may shock you.

Apr 27, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Ivan Demidov (93) and left wing Juraj Slafkovsky (20) wait for a face-off beside each other during the third period in game four of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The next Montreal Canadiens training camp will be interesting on many levels. Whether it’s the questions to be answered about the 2nd line, the battle for the backup goalie job, or the fight for the 6th and 7th defenseman spots.

There will be plenty of storylines to watch.

Another battle, less discussed at the moment, could also very well take place on the 1st line.

As Maxim Lapierre mentions, the newcomer to the club, Zachary Bolduc, could push Juraj Slafkovsky for his spot on the team’s top unit.

“Do you think Zachary Bolduc will push Slafkovsky for a spot on the first line at some point this season?” – Maxim Lapierre

The question is a good one and deserves consideration.

Indeed, many believe Bolduc is a top-6 player. He could even become a 20, maybe even 25, goal scorer as early as this season.

With that in mind, he could also very well get his chance on the 1st line with Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki.

Bolduc or Demidov on the First Line Instead of Slafkovsky?

The problem here is that the Habs have another player, more talented in my eyes, who could also push Slafkovsky for that spot-and that’s Ivan Demidov.

Many see the young Russian forward lining up alongside the two young veterans on the club’s top unit.

But Bolduc has something Demidov doesn’t-and something Slaf seems to struggle to bring to that line-and that’s a physical game.

He could very well take on number 20’s role and be more effective at it.

Moreover, if Bolduc is a pure goal scorer, the Quebec native can also set up his teammates.

“I want to help the Canadiens be a better team, whether it’s five-on-five, on the power play, or on the penalty kill. I’ve never really had the chance to play on the penalty kill, but I’m smart and I see the game well. It’s something I could add to my toolbox. I’m going to come in with that mindset.”

– Zachary Bolduc, in an interview with La Presse

Imagine the damage he could do with Suzuki and Caufield!

In the end, it’s great to see that Martin St-Louis has plenty of options for his top 6.

Depending on how his two units perform, he will have the freedom to adjust everything as he sees fit.

All that’s missing is another center in that top 6, so the head coach can have his royal flush.