Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis. Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Bob Hartley sends clear message to Martin St. Louis and the Canadiens: A change is being demanded

Originally posted on Habs Fanatics | By Elias Adaime | Last updated Nov 15, 2024 10:01 PM ET

The exceptional Bob Hartley has delivered a clear message to the Montreal Canadiens organization.

Known for his fearless opinions and deep understanding of hockey, Hartley made a notable statement on RDS during the show "On Jase."

The discussion centered around Lane Hutson, Kirby Dach and the Canadiens' management's decision to aim for a playoff spot this season.

Here's the core of what he said:

"It doesn't look serious to say we want to be in the mix. If they tell us they want to reposition Dach because they're counting on him for the future, great, I'm on board. But, if that's the case for Dach, why isn't Hutson on the first power-play unit?

"Because when the Canadiens are truly competitive, chances are Mike Matheson will no longer be with the team."

"I don't want to be negative, but rather realistic. We can unplug the mixer, because we won't be in the mix there's simply not enough ingredients."

A change is clearly being called for, not just by Hartley but by many experts and analysts alike.

Lane Hutson needs to be placed on the top power-play unit.

Pierre McGuire also gave his opinion:

This will be a storyline to watch, but it's hard not to wonder what could be achieved if the Canadiens fully embraced Hartley's sound advice.

There is an incredible hockey mind right here in town, and it's a shame he isn't more involved with the organization. That said, comments like these are bound to reach the ears of management, or so I'd think!

This article first appeared on Habs Fanatics and was syndicated with permission.

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