The highly anticipated return of NHL players to the Olympic Games has ignited intense speculation and evaluation within Hockey Canada, as the national team begins the critical process of assembling its roster. Among the pool of elite talent under consideration, three prominent players from the Montreal Canadiens—goaltender Samuel Montembeault, captain Nick Suzuki, and defenseman Noah Dobson—are closely watched contenders hoping to secure their place on the prestigious Canadian squad heading to Milan.
Samuel Montembeault, the astute Québécois netminder, currently stands with a significant advantage in his bid for an Olympic berth. His recent inclusion in the exclusive contingent of guest goalkeepers for the 4 Nations Confrontation, coupled with Canada inviting only three netminders to the crucial orientation camp, strongly signals his high standing within the national program. This focused approach suggests that Montembeault is very much in contention for one of the coveted spots.
However, while Montembeault’s selection appears increasingly probable, discussions are now pivoting to the specific role he might fulfill. His experience at the 4 Nations saw him as the third-choice goaltender, predominantly behind established names like Jordan Binnington and Adin Hill. Although his presence on the team seems almost assured, securing substantial playing time in Milan will likely be a more formidable challenge amidst such high-calibre competition.
Conversely, Canadiens’ captain Nick Suzuki faces a more competitive landscape in his aspiration to wear the maple leaf. The orientation camp alone boasts an impressive roster of 26 forwards, many of whom are strong candidates for pivotal center ice positions. Despite this fierce competition, Suzuki’s exceptional versatility and proven leadership make him an attractive prospect, particularly for a crucial second or third-line role that demands both offensive flair and defensive responsibility.
Suzuki’s case is further strengthened by his remarkable two-way game, demonstrating an uncanny ability to excel in both offensive production and defensive assignments. His standout performance last season, accumulating 89 points, positioned him as the sixth-highest scoring Canadian forward. This blend of scoring prowess and defensive reliability makes him an ideal candidate to contribute significantly to Team Canada’s pursuit of Olympic gold.
Noah Dobson’s path to the Olympic roster appears to be the most uncertain among the Canadiens trio. He is engaged in an intense battle with twelve other elite defensemen for a limited number of spots on Canada’s blue line. The sheer depth of defensive talent available to Canada means Dobson must distinguish himself considerably to earn his place, highlighting the formidable challenge he faces.
Despite the steep competition, Dobson possesses the potential to emerge as a surprise inclusion. Should he replicate his impressive 2023-24 season, where he amassed 70 points in 79 games, his offensive contributions from the blueline could become indispensable. Ultimately, the performance of all three players throughout the upcoming season will be paramount, as Hockey Canada officials have until December to finalize the formidable roster for the Olympic Games.
