As the anticipation for the new NHL season reaches a fever pitch, Montreal Canadiens fans have just been handed a fresh dose of excitement—and controversy.

With the official training camp still weeks away, a newly released projected lineup has set social media ablaze, sparking heated debates and wild speculation about what the future holds for this storied franchise.

The lineup, published by Hockey30, offers a glimpse into what could be a radically different face for the Canadiens, mixing established stars with bold new talent in ways few could have predicted.

But it’s not just the usual suspects grabbing headlines this time around. While some choices seem obvious, others are sending shockwaves through the fanbase, with two unexpected names drawing particular attention.

The combinations and placements within this projection hint at a new strategy, one that could redefine the team’s identity and unlock hidden potential.

For some, these changes signal the dawn of an electrifying era; for others, they raise questions about the risks and rewards of shaking up familiar chemistry.

What surprises are lurking in this speculative lineup? Which young prospect has suddenly vaulted into the spotlight, and what does it mean for the Canadiens’ ambitions?

Dive in to discover the twists that have everyone talking.

Apr 30, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Montreal Canadiens players wait to go through the handshake line after game five of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The site Hockey30 has published a projected lineup for the Montreal Canadiens, and I’m certain this will fuel fans’ imagination even before the official training camp begins.

This lineup shows a different face of the team, with some intriguing combinations and two major surprises worth highlighting.

In this projection, Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Ivan Demidov are grouped together on an electrifying first line. It’s no surprise to see these three players together, but it’s further down the lineup where the choices get interesting.

Here’s the post:

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Slafkovsky Elevated and Florian Xhekaj Included in a Canadiens Lineup

The second line features Patrik Laine, Kirby Dach, and Juraj Slafkovsky. After an encouraging season, seeing Slafkovsky placed right away on the right wing alongside two offensive veterans clearly shows that they expect significant progress from him.

However, separating the Slaf-Suzuki-Caufield line is still a surprise, but considering who is replacing Slaf on the first line, it’s quite understandable!

As one observer summed it up regarding Demidov:

“You can feel that he has gained the organization’s trust and that they want to test him quickly in a key role.”

Further down, another surprise stands out: Florian Xhekaj. The young forward is projected on the fourth line with Jake Evans and Brendan Gallagher.

For a prospect coming off an excellent rookie camp, this is an encouraging sign.

A fan even noted in the comments:

“Just seeing his name in a projection like this is already an accomplishment for him.”

On defense, we see Kaiden Guhle with Noah Dobson, Lane Hutson with Alexandre Carrier, and finally Mike Matheson with Arber Xhekaj. No big surprises there.

In goal, Samuel Montembeault and Jakub Dobes complete the lineup. Again, nothing too wild. Although it’s not out of the question that young Fowler could give a good battle for the backup spot.

Obviously, this is a projection and not an official lineup, but I think it really builds excitement!