Habs’ Growing Pains: Where St-Louis Shines & Struggles

NHL coaches often possess distinct philosophies, crafting unique strategies and styles, each responding differently to similar game situations. When the Montreal Canadiens appointed Martin St-Louis as head coach on February 9, 2022, the hockey world was taken aback. Despite his Hall of Fame playing career, the Laval native entered the role without prior professional coaching experience.

However, St-Louis brought an analytical mind and an unconventional approach to the game. His media interactions offer refreshing insights, filled with novel analogies that resonate with both players and fans. What he lacks in traditional coaching experience, he compensates for with effective communication skills that clearly impact his team positively.

One of St-Louis’s greatest strengths is his relatability to players across the roster. Standing at a modest 5-foot-8, he faced repeated doubts about his NHL prospects, going undrafted twice. The Calgary Flames offered him a tryout, leading to stints in the IHL and AHL before he briefly joined the NHL. After the Flames chose not to renew his contract, St-Louis signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he defied expectations, enjoying a dominant, Hall of Fame-worthy career. His journey from undrafted underdog to NHL stardom allows him to connect deeply with players facing their own challenges.

Areas for Improvement

While St-Louis has introduced many positive changes, certain aspects of his coaching warrant refinement:

• Timeout Utilization: There have been instances where the team conceded multiple goals in quick succession. Strategic use of timeouts during these moments could help calm players and disrupt the opposing team’s momentum.
• In-Game Adjustments: In situations where the team appears sluggish, St-Louis has occasionally been hesitant to alter line combinations mid-game. Developing a keener sense for identifying underperforming players and making timely adjustments could provide the necessary spark during challenging games.
• Player Rotation: The NHL’s gruelling 82-game schedule demands effective player rotation to maintain overall team freshness. For example, forward Michael Pezzetta has appeared in only 17 of the team’s 70 games this season, sitting out 28 consecutive games at one point. Ensuring all players receive adequate ice time is crucial for maintaining team depth and morale.
• Goaltender Management: Effective goaltender rotation is vital for maintaining sharpness and confidence. Young goalies like Cayden Primeau and Jakub Dobeš have experienced extended periods without game action, which can hinder their development. Implementing a more consistent rotation could benefit both individual performance and the team’s overall success.

Conclusion

Martin St-Louis’s emphasis on player development is evident in his handling of young talents like Juraj Slafkovsky, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield, all of whom have made significant strides. His approach fosters a culture of learning and growth, aligning with the team’s rebuilding efforts.

He has infused the Montreal Canadiens with a fresh perspective, leveraging his personal experiences to mentor and develop his players effectively. While certain coaching aspects require fine-tuning, his commitment to growth—both personal and for his team—bodes well for the Canadiens’ future. As the organization continues its journey toward competitiveness, St-Louis’s evolving coaching acumen will be instrumental in navigating the challenges ahead.