As the Montreal Canadiens gear up for what promises to be one of their most anticipated seasons in recent memory, uncertainty is already casting a shadow over the team’s plans.

With new rumors swirling about the health of a key forward, questions are mounting about how the roster will shape up when the puck drops for the 2025-26 campaign.

The excitement surrounding rookie sensation Ivan Demidov and the team’s recent acquisitions has fans buzzing, but there’s a sense that the Canadiens’ management isn’t done making moves just yet.

Behind the scenes, General Manager Kent Hughes is reportedly exploring every option to ensure the team remains competitive, especially if injury troubles persist.

In the midst of high-profile trade rumors and speculation about potential blockbuster deals, a surprising name has emerged as a possible solution—one that could quietly make a big impact without making headlines.

With the stakes higher than ever and expectations soaring, the Canadiens may be on the verge of a strategic move that could define their season.

What unexpected twist could be in store for Montreal’s lineup? And who is the veteran player being considered as a crucial piece in the team’s puzzle?

Read on to discover the intriguing possibilities that lie ahead for the Canadiens.

Tampa Bay Lightning center Luke Glendening (11) (right) Against the Toronto Maple Leafs

Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski USA Today sports

New information regarding Kirby Dach is raising concerns, and the forward may unfortunately not be able to start the upcoming season.

However, if this rumor turns out to be true, there remains a very interesting option for Kent Hughes on the free agent market.

What does the 2025-26 season hold for the Montreal Canadiens? Will captain Nick Suzuki’s squad once again manage to secure a playoff spot? One thing is certain-the excitement hasn’t been this high in many years.

Everyone is eagerly waiting to see forward Ivan Demidov play his NHL rookie season, and he is the favorite to win the prestigious Calder Trophy, awarded to the rookie of the year and won last season by defenseman Lane Hutson.

According to several experts, Kent Hughes remains very active and is looking to add a piece to improve his roster. In recent weeks, the GM has made two strong moves by acquiring Noah Dobson and Zachary Bolduc.

Mason McTavish’s name is circulating widely in trade rumors and has been linked to the Canadiens. There’s also Marco Rossi, who could be an interesting target. Then, Jordan Kyrou is reportedly still available from St. Louis, and there is no doubt that the leadership in Montreal is interested in acquiring his services.

Luke Glendening is a low-cost stopgap option in free agency and could greatly help the Montreal Canadiens

If you’ve followed the NHL for several years, you already know that Luke Glendening is one of the best in the faceoff circle.

Of course, the center is now 36 years old, and this is clearly being discussed as a stopgap alternative if Kirby Dach is out for several weeks again during the 2025-26 season.

But Glendening could seriously bring a valuable element to Montreal and serve as the go-to guy for winning critical faceoffs-especially now that the team has lost Christian Dvorak.

Jake Evans would then slot in as the third-line center, while Glendening would anchor the fourth line. A depth player, yes, but don’t underestimate the importance of what he can contribute-and at a very low cost.