Here’s what my CH lineup might look like to start the season

Michaël Petit
Here’s what my CH lineup might look like to start the season
Credit: Reuben Polansky-Shapiro/NHLI via Getty Images

The 2026–27 season and training camp are fast approaching.

For that reason, I've decided to put together my ideal starting lineup for the season opener using the players currently in the organization. So, there won't be any fictional trades.

However, I'm basing this exercise on the assumption that Zachary Bolduc and Arber Xhekaj will extend their contracts before the season starts. I'll also explain my thoughts on any surprises or changes compared to the lineup from the last playoff game.

Forwards

  • Caufield – Suzuki – Slafkovsky
  • Bolduc – Kapanen – Demidov
  • Newhook – Evans – Anderson
  • Beck – Danault – Dach
  • Reserve: Texier

Defensemen

  • Matheson – Dobson
  • Hutson – Reinbacher
  • Guhle – Carrier
  • Reserves: Struble and Xhekaj

Goaltenders

  • Dobes
  • Montembeault

As you can see, Owen Beck and David Reinbacher are in the starting lineup, pushing Alexandre Texier, Jayden Struble, and Arber Xhekaj to the bench.

Personally, I think Beck and Reinbacher will have a strong training camp, and we know just how much the Habs need a defensively reliable right-handed defenseman with a big frame. Reinbacher fits that mold perfectly.

I really liked Texier last year, but let's be honest—he doesn't have the ideal profile to play on the bottom six, which is why Beck has been inserted in his place.

Personally, I can see Bolduc getting a good chance on the second line, and I think Kapanen will reclaim his spot as the second-line center. He was excellent in the first half of the season.

The Finn has scored several times off passes from Demidov, as shown in the video below:

Furthermore, I believe the Habs will give Samuel Montembeault another chance to get back on track. Last season was disastrous, but that doesn't mean he's a bad goalie.

Monty will have to prove he deserves the #2 spot, though. However, if a team loses one of its goalies to injury, Montembeault becomes a very attractive option—he doesn't command a high price on the market but could get the job done.

For his part, Fowler will be able to play plenty of games in Laval to develop his game and dominate with the Rocket. If Monty doesn't cut it or gets traded, Fowler will be ready to step back into the No. 2 role, with a little more experience under his belt.

Of course, all of this could change, but for now, this is the lineup I'd prefer.

A lot can change during training camp. Other surprises could happen, and one or more trades could obviously go through.

Plus, there's no guarantee that Bolduc and Xhekaj will extend their contracts before the start of the season.

Honestly, I really like this lineup, even if there aren't any trades to improve the top-6 on offense.


Quick Thoughts

– I think the answer is a resounding yes. With two young goaltenders, that really wouldn't be ideal.

– Read this.

– Changes needed to be made.

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