Here are the four principal things the Montreal Canadiens need to do during their 5 home games
December presents the Montreal Canadiens with a familiar schedule of home games early in the month before heading on the road for the holidays.
As seen on The Hockey Writers, they begin a five-game homestand at the Bell Centre on Dec. 3 against the New York Islanders.
What should they aim to achieve during this home stretch before Christmas?
Integration of Patrik Laine in the lineup
The Canadiens will debut Patrik Laine who was acquired in a major trade with Columbus but sidelined with a knee injury in preseason.
His return is very anticipated and he's expected to play alongside Juraj Slafkovsky and Kirby Dach on the 2nd line for the Habs.
Can Laine revive his offensive spark and become a consistent scoring threat for the Montreal Canadiens?
Securing some points for the standings!
Montreal's next few games are against teams they can realistically beat in the Islanders, Predators, Ducks and Penguins who are all struggling.
While these games are winnable, the biggest test will come on Dec. 9 against the Capitals who are one of the NHL's top teams.
Boost the confidence for players like for Alex Newhook, Cayden Primeau and Kirby Dach
Alex Newhook, Cayden Primeau, and Kirby Dach have underperformed for the Habs, and they need to step up if we want the Habs to be a good team this year.
Bring back the fans support for the team
In this rebuilding phase, the Canadiens need their fans' support instead of criticism.
The young players like Kirby Dach, Juraj Slafkovsky and Lane Hutson need encouragement at their young age and Montreal's passionate fanbase can help lift the team's spirit.
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Montreal Canadiens will win more or less than three of their five next home game? | ||
| More | 35 | 44.3 % |
| Less | 13 | 16.5 % |
| Equal | 31 | 39.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
