Three Canadiens are trending up: Alexandre Texier is playing with greater confidence and driving the rush, Kaiden Guhle is thriving in a demanding all-around defensive role, and Chris Kreider may be settling in after a slow start. Their recent progress is showing up in their play, even when the scoring totals don’t tell the whole story.

By the Numbers
  • Texier has 2 goals and 5 points in 14 games; at five-on-five, he’s winning nearly 60% of shot attempts and close to 65% of expected goals.
  • More than 70% of Texier’s shifts have started outside the offensive zone.
  • Guhle has 2 goals and 4 points, averaging a career-high 22:49 per game.
  • Kreider had 2 points—1 goal and 1 assist—in Montreal’s 5-4 win over Pittsburgh, bringing his season total to 6 points in 14 games.
Yes, But

Texier’s improved play has yet to produce a scoring surge, and Kreider is still adjusting to a new team and system. Guhle’s strong start comes after recurring injuries, so his health remains a key part of the story.

State of Play
  • Texier says he’s confident and focused on moving his feet, creating space and playing consistently.
  • Guhle has returned from offseason surgery at full health and is handling tough matchups while contributing at both ends.
  • Coach Martin St. Louis sees Kreider’s adaptation as gradual but moving in the right direction.
What's Next

If Texier sustains his strong underlying play, more points could follow. Guhle’s ability to stay healthy will shape how reliably Montreal can lean on him in its toughest defensive assignments, while Kreider will look to build on his breakthrough performance against Pittsburgh.

Bottom Line

Montreal’s encouraging signs go beyond the scoresheet: Texier is driving play, Guhle is supplying a rare all-around presence, and Kreider may be finding his footing. If those gains hold, the Canadiens could get more from all three as the season progresses.