With Marc Bergevin's summer duties having been completed (barring any surprise trades in the next few weeks), it's time now to take a look at the Montreal Canadiens' roster for the upcoming 2015-2016 season.
In order to do so, I would propose a very familiar exercise whose results most hockey fans love to passionately discuss and debate incessantly. Comprised of four parts, the exercise would consist of predicting :
1- which rookie or prospect will impress the most out of training camp/pre-season, potentially earning himself a spot on the roster,
2- the trios and defensive pairings at the start of the season,
3- a single trade deadline acquisition, and at what cost,
And
4- the trios and defensive pairings heading into the 2015-2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
I'll begin by posting my predictions here, and am looking forward to seeing yours in the comments sections.
1- Sven Andrighetto: while not the biggest player at 5'9, I was thoroughly impressed with his offensive capabilities. He hardly ever looked out of place in the 12 games that he played with the big club, scoring his first and second career goals in his first two games, while adding an assist as well. I believe he's hungry to earn himself a spot on the roster, considering he most likely feels that he did not get a proper chance to showcase his abilities. He had 3 points in his first 3 NHL games, and was bounced around the lineup afterwards.
2- Pacioretty - Plekanec - Semin Eller - Galchenyuk - Gallagher Andrighetto - Desharnais - Smith-Pelly Kassian - de La Rose - Weise
Markov - Subban Beaulieu - Petry Emelin - Gilbert
3- Alexander Steen and a 3rd round pick in exchange for Plekanec, Gilbert, and a 2nd round pick.
4- Pacioretty - Galchenyuk - Gallagher Steen - Eller - Semin Andrighetto - Desharnais - Smith-Pelly Kassian - De La Rose - Weise
Beaulieu - Subban Markov - Petry Tinordi - Pateryn
I believe that with this lineup, the Habs would have four lines capable of scoring. I expect a big year out of Eller, who should perhaps consider this upcoming season as his last chance to earn himself a permanent spot on the top two lines.
While acquiring Steen might be a long shot, it's important to remember that the Canadiens have a lot of depth. These exercises are significantly harder than they may seem, and I'm curious to see how you all respond.