Are The Canadiens Finally Ready To Compete With The Big Boys? (ft. Jonny G)

This week we dive deep into the incredible transformation of the Montreal Canadiens under coach Marty St. Louis. We explore how this young, exciting, fast team might go on a historic playoff run, and what it takes to build a winner in the NHL’s tightest races.
Joining the show this week as our first guest is Jonny G of Barely Onside⁩ to discuss:
● The historic rise of the Montreal Canadiens and their latest milestones
● How Marty St. Louis’s coaching is shaping a premier team culture
● Key players’ breakout seasons: Nick Suzuki, Cole Caulfield, Lane Hudson, and more
● The significance of management changes and organizational philosophy
● Predictions & strategic matchups for the 2026 NHL playoffs
● The importance of chemistry, patience, and avoiding emotional decisions in trades
● The potential for a blockbuster trade—what Montreal might do this summer

This was a fun one! Enjoy it!

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Buy Josh’s Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Second-Story-Work-Josh-Cybulski/dp/B08JF5M3MN/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1706931882&sr=8-1
Listen to Josh’s Audiobook Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/second-story-work-the-novel/id1712487814

Follow Jonny G at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566964983297&sk=photos
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Chapters
(00:00) - The Canadiens’ explosive rise: milestones and surprises
(02:19) - Why this team is different: young talent and accelerated rebuild
(03:17) - The influence of Jeff Gordon & Jeff Gordon’s leadership magic
(06:32) - How management philosophy shapes winning teams
(08:46) - Marty St. Louis’s growth as a coach and player development
(17:28) - Can he be both a development guru and a finisher?
(22:45) - Building trust: The foundation of Montreal’s success
(24:58) - Developing young stars like Slav, Caulfield, and others
(33:00) - The blockbuster move: Montreal's summer trade targets
(35:14) - The all-important second line center: Who is the best fit?
(44:12) - NHL playoff predictions: Montreal’s path & potential outcomes (66:27) - How Montreal prepares to face favorites like Tampa, Boston
(71:33) - Surprising facts about Carolina’s style & playoff style nuances
(73:55) - Wrapping up with bold predictions & the future of Montreal hockey