Canadiens: Derek Lalonde puts early stamp on defensive structure

The Montreal Canadiens’ identity without the puck is starting to take shape, with associate coach Derek Lalonde overseeing a revamped defensive approach at training camp. Tasked with organizing the team’s structure in its own end and on the penalty kill, Lalonde is already leaving a visible mark as the group moves through preseason practices and games.

Defensive identity emerging as camp roster thins

Montreal is working toward tighter coverage in its zone and a more cohesive penalty-kill unit after several challenging seasons defensively. Early signs suggest a more coordinated system, though its real effectiveness will only be measured once the roster is closer to regular-season form and facing full NHL lineups on a nightly basis.

The organization trimmed its camp roster on Saturday by assigning 11 players to the AHL’s Laval Rocket, its primary affiliate. Those moves bring added clarity to the competition for the remaining spots in Montreal while giving Laval a better sense of the group it will have to start its own season.

Among the hopefuls still trying to secure a job, forward Florian Xhekaj continues to lean on his versatility to make an impression. His ability to contribute in different roles and game situations has been highlighted throughout camp. Off the ice, Florian and his brother Arber recently combined to buy their parents a new home, a milestone moment that reflects how far both have come in their professional careers.

Ongoing Oilers interest in Dach and wider NHL storylines

In the background of Montreal’s internal battles, the Edmonton Journal reports that the Oilers are still keeping a close eye on Kirby Dach. Edmonton is believed to be interested in finding a way to bring the Canadiens centre to Alberta at some point this season, though there is no indication that any formal discussions are underway.

Ticket prices in Montreal remain another talking point, with rising costs at the Bell Centre increasingly shutting out families. The trend is widely attributed to basic supply-and-demand pressures in a market where interest in the team consistently drives strong attendance.

Around the league, Tampa Bay Lightning star Nikita Kucherov recently stirred controversy by saying there are a lot of “dumb players” in the NHL, a blunt assessment that sparked debate among fans and analysts. On the transaction front, the Detroit Red Wings claimed veteran defenceman Andreas Englund off waivers from the Calgary Flames, adding depth to their blue line ahead of the new campaign.

Another notable story out of Edmonton involves the creation of the Oilers’ first full-time emergency backup goaltender position. One netminder went from shopping for furniture to receiving the call for the role, underscoring how quickly opportunities can appear for players on the fringes of the professional game.