The Montreal Canadiens, defying preseason expectations, have entered the second half of the 2025-26 NHL season as one of the league's most compelling stories. Despite facing adversity, including inconsistent goaltending and a rash of injuries, the team finds itself in the thick of the playoff race.
A Surprising Ascent in the Standings
As of January 11, 2026, the Canadiens are not only battling for top spot in the highly competitive Atlantic Division but also sit comfortably within the top 10 of the overall NHL standings. This achievement is made more remarkable by the fact that Montreal ices the youngest roster in the entire league. This combination of youth and success naturally turns the spotlight onto the man behind the bench: head coach Martin St. Louis.
The question now being asked across the hockey world is whether St. Louis's work this season merits serious consideration for the Jack Adams Award, given annually to the NHL's top coach. Guiding such a young group through challenges and into contention is precisely the kind of narrative that often captures the attention of award voters.
The HI/O Show Dives into the Debate
This pressing topic was the focus of a special bonus episode of The Hockey Inside/Out Show. The Gazette's Stu Cowan and Brendan Kelly were joined by a voice with deep franchise roots: former Canadiens defenceman and assistant coach Rick Green, who was a member of Montreal's 1986 Stanley Cup championship team.
Their discussion undoubtedly weighed the team's impressive position against the hurdles they've overcome, analyzing St. Louis's systems, player development, and in-game management. The perspective of a former player and coach like Green provides valuable insight into the intangible impacts a coach can have on a young squad's confidence and performance.
What's Next for the Canadiens and Coverage
The conversation around St. Louis and the Jack Adams Award will only intensify if the Canadiens maintain or improve their standing through the season's crucial final months. The team's ability to weather storms and keep winning has become their defining trait.
For fans seeking ongoing analysis, The Hockey Inside/Out Show will return with its regular weekly episode on Wednesday, followed by three additional bonus episodes. The show is available for subscription on the Hockey Inside/Out YouTube channel, as well as on popular podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
