Montreal Canadiens fans have grown accustomed to seeing Nick Suzuki lead on the ice, but recent revelations suggest his influence runs far deeper than anyone imagined.

Behind the scenes, a fascinating dynamic is emerging—one that could redefine the way major decisions are made within the storied franchise.

As trade rumors swirled and blockbuster moves unfolded, it wasn’t just the general manager pulling the strings. In a dramatic twist, Suzuki’s opinion was sought before the Canadiens made one of their biggest acquisitions of the season, raising eyebrows across the hockey world.

But just how much power does the young captain really wield? Exclusive footage from the team’s documentary series has revealed a private moment between Suzuki and GM Kent Hughes, hinting at a level of trust and collaboration rarely seen in professional sports.

With Suzuki’s approval paving the way for the arrival of a star forward, fans and analysts alike are left wondering: Has Suzuki become the Canadiens’ secret architect, shaping the roster from within? And could his input have influenced other high-profile deals this summer? The answers, and the full story behind this unprecedented partnership, promise to change how we view leadership in Montreal—and leave readers eager for every detail.

Apr 25, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Nick Suzuki (14) plays the puck during the second period in game three of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Washington Capitals at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Yes, Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki has a lot of influence within the organization.

A few months ago, during the 2025 National Hockey League trade deadline, we reported that Kent Hughes had contacted Nick Suzuki regarding some trades.

That’s when Suzuki asked his GM not to sell everything.

Well, it turns out that wasn’t the first time!

As we reported in the last few days, we had an update from the Montreal Canadiens.

And in fact, as part of season 2 of the series “The Rebuild: Inside the Montreal Canadiens,” the organization unveiled a video clip of the moment when Kent Hughes completed the major trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets to bring Patrik Laine to town.. And we notice something interesting.

Kent Hughes contacted Nick Suzuki for a major offensive trade: he asked for his opinion before acquiring Patrik Laine

We love it!

Before finalizing the deal, Kent Hughes contacted his captain Nick Suzuki by phone, to make sure he was in favor of the trade and to ensure it would be a good thing for the Habs’ locker room.

Suzuki immediately approved it all.

See the video clips in question, right here:

It makes you wonder if Kent Hughes did the same thing before acquiring Noah Dobson and before acquiring Zachary Bolduc earlier this summer.

“The captain has a lot of influence within the Canadiens organization.”

Ironically, Suzuki could possibly be helping Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton finally find a second center to play behind him.