I've spoken often and loudly how I love Martin St-Louis coaching style. He's intelligent, measured and straightforward and has an incredibly deep understanding of how to play hockey. Without him, I don't think the Habs are anywhere close to where they are now. I won't re-cap the last few years, but recently two things he has done shows what makes him an amazing coach.
Reaction to the loss vs the Devils
In his post game comments following the Devils game, and even the game vs Utah, St-Louis talked about how he liked the Habs third period vs New Jersey despite giving up a one goal lead and ultimately losing in OT. He was able to recognize the team as a whole played well, but simply did not get the result.
I find a lot of old school coaches would have freaked out and talked about the importance of keeping a lead and that losing is unacceptable, in a very black and white fashion. He recognizes that hockey is a fast game, and sometimes you just don't finish on the winning end.
The players recognize this, which makes it incredibly easy for them to buy into what he's selling. Admittedly it's easier to have this approach when the team is winning, but even when Montreal was struggling in years past, he had the same philosophy.
Demidov Management
I've talked about this before, but I also love how he treats young players. Demidov is already a star and one of the most talented players on the team. He's not playing 8 minutes a game and scratched for others. He's playing 14 minutes a game, and is now on the first power play unit. He's having great offensive success and is currently leading all rookies with 13 points. This is because he's being put in a position to succeed by St-Louis, not having his time wasted with mind games or benching (See Michkov with Torts) Because of this he looks confident, happy and is producing. Marty is not in it to manipulate and play with a player's emotions. He's actually there to coach and make them better hockey players. It's refreshing as hell.
I know these may seem like minor things, but when they accumulate, they form the building blocks of a team who can win games and eventually a Stanley Cup. The Habs are essentially the opposite of the Oilers; they have a plan, a cohesive system, balanced ice time and a coach and front office who knows what they are doing.