3 Bold Predictions for the Montreal Canadiens 2023-24 Season

Welcome to our new predictions series where we'll make three bold predictions for each NHL team next season. From individual point totals, big trades from GM's or Stanley Cup Playoff success, we'll cover it all as we dive into all 32 teams.

Today's events take us to Montreal, Quebec to chime in on the Canadiens for next season. A team with a confusing direction, general manager Kent Hughes is trying to get the team back into contention, we just have no clue what his timelines look like. Here's three bold Canadiens' predictions for next season:

Montreal Misses the Playoffs, And It's Not Even Close

Prediction #1 has the Habs sitting around the bottom of the eastern conference. With questionable goaltending, a very thin forward group and an even thinner blue line, the Canadiens and their fans are in for a long season. After winning 31 games last season and finishing second last in the conference, the Canadiens don't reach 35 wins and will finish is essentially the same spot after the 2023-24 campaign.

Cole Caufield Scores 35 Goals

After posting 26 goals in only 46 games in 2022-23, look for Caufield to have himself a fine season next year. Injuries have been a concern early on in his career, so he'll need to of course stay healthy if he wants to reach some milestone numbers. His previous career high is the 26 he potted last season, so look for the smallish sniper to continue to roll next season and surpasses his career best.

Canadiens Trade Several Players 

Look for Hughes and company to remain active on the trade market next season. The likes of Christian Dvorak have been talked about most of the summer and the same can be said for Mike Hoffman, Josh Anderson, Kirby Dach and Joel Armia. If things go off the rails, as expected, early on next season, the Canadiens may be one of the first teams to pull the trigger on a deal.

Photo credit:  David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports