The Montreal Canadiens’ season has already been filled with unexpected twists, and the latest development involving young forward Zachary Bolduc is turning heads across the hockey world. Just weeks after bursting onto the scene with an impressive start, Bolduc now finds himself at the center of a brewing controversy—one that could have far-reaching implications for both his future and the team’s trajectory.

Last night’s game revealed a subtle but telling shift in the coaching staff’s approach, leaving fans and analysts alike scrambling to decode the real story behind Bolduc’s sudden change in status. With whispers of disappointment and hints of a stern message from head coach Martin St-Louis, the atmosphere in Montreal is thick with speculation and concern.

As the Canadiens prepare to embark on a challenging western road trip, questions abound: What exactly prompted this dramatic adjustment for Bolduc? How will he respond to his first real test of adversity in the NHL? And what does this mean for the team’s lineup moving forward, especially with other key players sidelined?

The answers remain tantalizingly out of reach, but one thing is certain—the coming days will be pivotal for Bolduc and the Canadiens. Stay tuned as the full story unfolds.

Oct 18, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Zack Bolduc (76) skates during the warmup period before the game against the New York Rangers at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

The Quebec forward Zachary Bolduc has had a tremendous start to the season with the Montreal Canadiens.

However, over the past few games, he seems to have disappointed head coach Martin St-Louis, and let’s just say that Bolduc received quite a harsh message last night.

He was among the least-used players last night.

“10:32 for Bolduc against the Buffalo Sabres.”

Not only was Bolduc demoted to the fourth line, but his ice time also dropped drastically.

Martin St-Louis sends his message to Zack Bolduc

After using Bolduc for 15 to 17 minutes per game since the start of the season, Martin St-Louis reduced the Quebecer’s ice time to 10 minutes and 32 seconds last night.

It’ll be interesting to see what happens next and how Bolduc manages to bounce back from this first small challenge for him in Montreal.

Moreover, it’s said that St-Louis sent a stern message to Bolduc by keeping him glued to the bench for long stretches, but the Canadiens’ head coach also directly addressed Bolduc during his press conference.

“He has to play the same way, no matter what role he has,” stated head coach Martin St-Louis very clearly and directly.

Bolduc, who is only 22 years old, still has a solid 4 points in 7 games this season, including 3 goals, and he has shown some very promising things since his debut with the Montreal Canadiens.

That said, I hope he won’t stay on the fourth line for too long.

The Canadiens have left for Calgary and will take on the struggling Flames Wednesday night, the first stop on their four-game western road trip. As a reminder, Laine will miss the entire trip due to a lower-body injury.