GM Kent Hughes makes his thoughts on $60,800,000 Montreal Canadiens forward's struggles extremely clear 

Montreal Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes shared his thoughts on Juraj Slafkovsky’s recent struggles this season. He talked on Wednesday, during the mid-season media availability. Hughes acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the young forward’s potential.

“I think he [Juraj Slafkovsky] is capable of doing more. I think he knows that,” Hughes said. “Are we surprised? No. I told him in the summer when we signed him that we expect him to have highs & lows. That his progression won’t be linear. He’s not alone in this situation.”

Slafkovsky, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NHL draft, has shown mixed results this season. In 37 games, he has scored four goals and added 18 assists for 22 points. However, his defensive struggles are evident with a -11 plus/minus rating. His performance has been better in wins, where he has contributed three goals and 12 assists. In losses, his production drops to one goal and six assists.

Hughes compared Slafkovsky’s situation to other players who have faced similar challenges.

“I was talking to him yesterday. Since we’ve been here, the number of players that we’ve seen having difficult periods, (whether it’s Josh Anderson, Jake Evans, Sam Montembeault)…” Hughes said. “It’s the life of a professional athlete. The ones who are able to do consistently every year are very, very special players. I have lots of confidence in Juraj. He has work to do. You just have to keep your head down & work.”

Slafkovsky signed an eight-year, $60,800,000 contract with Montreal in July 2024, starting in the 2025-26 season. His career stats so far include 28 goals and 54 assists in 158 games. Despite some struggles, the Canadiens see him as a key part of their long-term plans.

Hughes made it clear that Slafkovsky’s development will take time. His size and skills make him a valuable player, but consistency and defensive improvements are crucial. The Montreal Canadiens are committed to helping him reach his full potential.

Montreal Canadiens erased 3-1 deficit to win against Canucks

The Montreal Canadiens beat the Vancouver Canucks 5-4 in overtime on Monday at Bell Centre.

Cole Caufield scored first for Montreal early in the game. J.T. Miller tied it for Vancouver in the first period and added another goal early in the second. Jonathan Lekkerimaki quickly made it 3-1 for Vancouver with a strong shot.

Kaiden Guhle cut the lead to 3-2, and Kirby Dach tied the game with a power-play goal. Lane Hutson’s lucky bounce gave Montreal a 4-3 lead, but Jake DeBrusk tied it again for Vancouver.

In overtime, Nick Suzuki’s power-play goal secured the Montreal Canadiens's win.