As the Montreal Canadiens prepare to launch their highly anticipated season opener, all eyes are suddenly fixed on a familiar face—Brendan Gallagher.

While coach Martin St-Louis has kept his cards close to his chest, subtle lineup hints and cryptic messages have ignited a firestorm of speculation across the hockey world. Is the 33-year-old veteran set to reclaim a starring role, or is this just another clever mind game from the Canadiens’ bench boss?

Journalists and insiders are buzzing, with one revealing detail suggesting Gallagher’s energy and grit might be the secret weapon Montreal needs this year.

Unexpectedly, Gallagher has found himself skating alongside promising talents like Kirby Dach and Zachary Bolduc in practice, raising eyebrows and fueling rumors about a potential resurgence. Could this new offensive trio be the key to unlocking the Canadiens’ full potential? Or is there a deeper strategy at play—one that challenges every veteran to fight for their place, night after night?

With his history of clutch performances and relentless heart, Gallagher could be on the verge of something special. But what does St-Louis’ message really mean for the team’s future? The answers are anything but obvious. Read on to discover the twists and turns behind Montreal’s bold new direction.

Canadiens coach Martin St-Louis, Maple Leafs Logo

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

It’s finally time for the Montreal Canadiens’ season opener, and Martin St-Louis has given a fairly clear hint about his lineup.

And without naming him directly, everything points to the 33-year-old veteran, Brendan Gallagher, having a much larger role than expected.

Journalist Anthony Martineau of TVA Sports even shared a revealing detail on his X account.

He reminded fans that Gallagher, often forgotten by supporters, still has plenty of energy left in the tank.

“We tend to forget that the no 11 is only 33 years old. Not 75!” Martineau joked.

This clearly shows that the fiery Canadiens forward is still ready to fight for a leading role.

Brendan Gallagher Regains an Important Offensive Role With the Montreal Canadiens

During yesterday’s morning practice, Gallagher was on a line with Kirby Dach and Zachary Bolduc, a combination that is very promising for Gallagher, in my opinion.

“Can’t wait to see his start to the season on a more offensive trio!” added Martineau.

This highlights that Gallagher scored 16 five-on-five goals last year, the third-highest on the team behind Cole Caufield (27) and Nick Suzuki (24).

Looking at the lines revealed by St-Louis, his message becomes clearer.
The Caufield-Suzuki-Slafkovsky line remains unchanged, but the Bolduc-Dach-Gallagher line is the one drawing attention.

“Caufield – Suzuki – Slafkovsky,
Bolduc – Dach – Gallagher,
Newhook – Kapanen – Demidov,
Anderson – Evans – Laine.

Matheson – Dobson,
Guhle – Hutson,
Xhekaj – Carrier,

Montembeault – Dobes

Meanwhile, Ivan Demidov will make his official debut with Oliver Kapanen, while Patrik Laine will be supported by Jake Evans and Josh Anderson.

I believe St-Louis is sending a strong message to his locker room: veterans still have their place, but they will have to earn it every night.

In my view, it’s not Gallagher’s speed that makes the difference-it’s his heart and energy.