The Montreal Canadiens have quietly transformed into one of the NHL’s most consistent and defensively sound teams this season, yet their efforts seem to have gone largely unnoticed by some of the league’s top analysts. Despite a blazing start and a newfound stability under coach Martin St-Louis, Montreal finds itself outside the coveted top five in The Athletic’s latest Power Rankings—an omission that has left fans and experts alike scratching their heads.

As the season unfolds, the Canadiens have showcased a remarkable ability to limit goals, shots, and scoring chances, signaling a shift in their identity and raising hopes for a breakthrough year. However, their position in the rankings has sparked a wave of debate, with many questioning whether the team is receiving the recognition it truly deserves. Are the Habs being underrated by the hockey world, or is there something more behind their surprising eighth-place spot?

With passionate reactions pouring in from all corners, and statistics that speak volumes about Montreal’s progress, the stage is set for a compelling discussion. What lies beneath the surface of this controversial ranking, and could the Canadiens be on the verge of defying expectations in ways few imagined? The answers may surprise you.

Canadiens' Cole Caufield and Jakub Dobes (left) Auston Matthews (right)

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

The Montreal Canadiens are outside The Athletic’s top 5 despite an excellent start to the season and clear progress under Martin St-Louis.

Despite a blazing start, the Montreal Canadiens did not find their place in the top 5 of the latest Power Ranking from “The Athletic”.

Here is the top 10 NHL Power Rankings according to The Athletic:

1. Colorado Avalanche, 4-0-1
2. Dallas Stars, 3-1-0
3. Carolina Hurricanes, 4-0-0
4. Washington Capitals, 3-1-0
5. Toronto Maple Leafs, 3-2-0
6. Edmonton Oilers, 2-1-1
7. Winnipeg Jets, 3-1-0
8. Montreal Canadiens, 4-1-0
9. New Jersey Devils, 3-1-0
10. Vegas Golden Knights, 3-0-2

This absence has sparked reactions from many fans, surprised to see the Tricolore ranked eighth when the team seems to be showing stability for the first time since the start of the rebuild.

In an article published on DansLesCoulisses.com, Marc-Olivier Cook summarizes the general feeling of many fans by saying that several observers believe Montreal is not getting the credit it deserves for its solid play since the start of the season.

“The Canadiens, after all, are among the NHL’s best defensive teams. They don’t allow many goals, they don’t allow many shots, they don’t allow many scoring chances… and that makes a difference in the end.”

– Marc-Olivier Cook

The Montreal Canadiens Are Progressing but Remain Underrated According to Several Experts

The Habs currently rank among the NHL’s top ten teams for goals allowed, fourth for shots against, and second for scoring chances conceded.

Those statistics show a well-established structure.

And it must be said, the Canadiens are playing with much more maturity and consistency than last year.

Personally, I find this ranking completely unfair.

In my eyes, this version of the Canadiens deserves better than eighth place, as it clearly demonstrates real progress on the ice.

If they maintain the same level of intensity and unity, Montreal could very well surprise everyone in the coming months.