As the 2025-26 NHL season reaches its midway point, the Montreal Canadiens have positioned themselves as a formidable force in the Atlantic Division. Heading into a Wednesday night clash against the Calgary Flames at the Bell Centre, the team's record stood at an impressive 23 wins, 13 losses, and 6 overtime losses. This performance places them a mere three points out of the division's top spot, sparking a crucial debate among fans and analysts alike: are the Habs genuine Stanley Cup contenders, or are they pretenders poised for a second-half fade?
Dissecting the First-Half Success
The Canadiens' first half has been defined by resilience and consistent team play. The panel on The Gazette's Hockey Inside/Out Show, featuring Stu Cowan, Brendan Kelly, and former Canadiens defenceman and assistant coach Rick Green, recently tackled the question of what has been the most impressive aspect of the season so far. The strong record, built in a highly competitive Atlantic Division, is a testament to the roster's depth and the coaching staff's system.
This success comes amidst the backdrop of General Manager Kent Hughes's midseason news conference held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Hughes, who was seen joking with reporters, has overseen a team that has exceeded many external expectations. The strategic moves made by the front office are now being put to the test as the season enters its most critical phase.
Key Questions for the Stretch Drive
While the record is promising, several pivotal questions loom over the team's playoff aspirations. A primary topic of discussion is the goaltending situation. Specifically, the panel examined whether Samuel Montembeault can reclaim his status as the team's undisputed number one goaltender. His performance in the second half could be the single biggest factor in determining the club's ceiling.
Beyond the crease, the Hockey Inside/Out panel also identified the biggest concern heading into the season's final stretch. As the schedule intensifies and the playoff race tightens, areas such as defensive consistency, secondary scoring, and special teams will be under a microscope. How the team addresses these challenges will ultimately define their fate.
The Verdict from the Experts
The central theme of the midseason analysis remains clear: the Canadiens have put themselves in an excellent position, but the hardest work lies ahead. The distinction between being a contender and a pretender will be earned in the coming months. Fans looking for deeper insights can access the full discussion on the Hockey Inside/Out Show, available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, with three bonus episodes scheduled for release in the coming days.
With half the season remaining, the Montreal Canadiens have control of their own narrative. Their strong start is no accident, but maintaining this pace through the grueling NHL stretch drive will require elevated play from every corner of the lineup. The answer to the contender question will be written on the ice, one game at a time.
