Martin St-Louis praises Zachary Bolduc as Kirby Dach's role with the Canadiens draws scrutiny
There are two forwards who are creating quite a buzz within the Montreal Canadiens organization following Thursday night's game against the Buffalo Sabres.
Notably, Martin St-Louis spoke up.
In a quote relayed by Anthony Martineau, the head coach mentioned that Zachary Bolduc is playing better than he was at the beginning of the year, even though he is scoring less. Interesting!
He also insisted that the Habs are happy with his development.
"Bolduc is playing better than he was at the start of the year when he was scoring. We're happy with how he's developing."
- Martin St-Louis
- Martin St-Louis
Martin St-Louis backs Zachary Bolduc amid growing debate around Kirby Dach
For his part, Marcotte doesn't understand why Martin St-Louis didn't give Zachary Bolduc a bigger role last night.
"This Dach thing isn't working. I can't explain why Bolduc wasn't on the top line in the third when he's the one who helped that line score in the second. Why not take advantage of his strong game? Right?"
- Anthony Marcotte, BPM Sports
- Anthony Marcotte, BPM Sports
For many, it's not clicking, and they want to take advantage of a strong game from Bolduc when he's rolling.
What helps Bolduc is that he has already proven he can produce in the NHL.
In 2024-2025, he played 72 games with the St. Louis Blues, recording 19 goals and 17 assists for 36 points.
The Canadiens then acquired him in a trade announced on July 1, 2025.
On the other side, Dach remains a heavy name in the equation.
In 2022-2023 with the Canadiens, he collected 38 points in 58 games, including 14 goals and 24 assists.
In the end, St-Louis' tone is clear and positive, and that matters.
He protects his player, without promising him an automatic spot.
Now remains to be seen whether, starting with the next game, the message will also be visible on the ice.
Also read on Montreal Hockey Fanatics :
Canadiens announce change of plan ahead of crucial 4-point game vs Boston Bruins
Canadiens announce change of plan ahead of crucial 4-point game vs Boston Bruins
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 23|2084 ANSWERS Martin St-Louis praises Zachary Bolduc as Kirby Dach's role with the Canadiens draws scrutiny Should Bolduc play on the first line? | ||
| Yes | 655 | 31.4 % |
| No | 1429 | 68.6 % |
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