Bolduc Lifts Canadiens Amid Slow Start in Montreal

Montreal Canadiens forward Zachary Bolduc has emerged as a key contributor during the team’s uneven opening stretch of the 2026-27 NHL season, scoring three goals in four games while injuries and inconsistent play challenge Montreal’s lineup.

According to Yardbarker, the Canadiens opened the season with a 1-2-1 record through four contests. Bolduc recorded three goals, a plus-2 rating and averaged 13:08 of ice time while playing all four games.

Bolduc’s early production continued after he moved into a larger role following Ivan Demidov’s lower-body injury. The 23-year-old forward joined Phillip Danault and Alexandre Texier on a line that created pressure for Montreal.

Against the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday, Bolduc scored twice in a 6-4 loss. NHL.com reported that his first goal came from a rebound scramble, while his second came on the power play to give Montreal a temporary 3-2 lead.

Bolduc said the individual performance was less important than the result after the loss to Carolina.

"It is good for confidence, but on the other hand, it would have been even better with a win. I am not satisfied. I want to perform, I want to get on the scoresheet and I want to help the team win. We did not manage to do that," said Zachary Bolduc, forward.

The new third line with Danault and Texier became one of Montreal’s strongest units against Carolina. According to Awininghabit, the trio controlled 87.9 percent of shot attempts while on the ice at five-on-five and was the Canadiens’ most effective line in that category.

Danault highlighted the group’s effort and preparation after the game against Carolina.

"We had some bite. We wanted it. You could see that we wanted to make a difference and we did it our way. Before the game, we said that was what we wanted to do," said Phillip Danault, forward.

Bolduc explained that the line’s chemistry developed quickly because the three players brought different strengths. He said Danault contributed in faceoffs and defensive-zone play, while Texier helped with puck protection and vision.

"We have great vision, we communicate really well on the ice. Our styles of play blend extremely well. Phil is good on faceoffs and in the deep zone.

Tex has great vision and protects the puck well. I try to be good on the forecheck and create turnovers," said Zachary Bolduc, forward.

The Canadiens previously rewarded Bolduc with a four-year contract worth $16.8 million in September. NHL.com reported that he scored 12 goals and added 18 assists in 78 games during the 2025-26 regular season while leading Montreal forwards with 170 hits.

Bolduc also started quickly in the previous season, scoring four goals and adding two assists in 11 October games before finishing with 30 points. His challenge now is maintaining production throughout the season.

The forward said Demidov’s absence created opportunities for other players to increase their roles.

"Everyone has to look at the situation as a chance to play more. It brings out the best in everyone and that is how the best teams are built. Demi is a big loss, but if everyone gives a little more, I think we can manage the situation.

We have many candidates, a lot of talent and depth. There are several guys who want more responsibility and more ice time. The internal competition is good for the team," said Zachary Bolduc, forward.

Montreal entered its next games with Demidov, Oliver Kapanen, Kaiden Guhle and Samuel Montembeault sidelined by injuries, leaving the team dependent on depth players such as Bolduc to provide offense.