yardbarker
As the Montreal Canadiens prepare for the 2026-27 season, Martin St-Louis is set to embark on his fifth full campaign as the team's head coach. Since taking over during the franchise's rebuilding phase, he has overseen a steady upward trajectory in the club's performance.
Under his guidance, the Canadiens have seen their points total climb from 68 to 76, then to 91, and finally to 106 over his first four complete seasons. This consistent improvement has earned him growing respect across the NHL, particularly given that he will be leading the league's youngest squad for a third straight year.
The Hockey News recently released its rankings of all 32 head coaches, placing St-Louis at an impressive seventh spot. The publication's list, which was shared on social media, singled out the Canadiens' bench boss for praise, acknowledging his ability to extract results from a developing team.
Recognition Amidst Veteran Company
Notably, the six coaches ranked above St-Louis—Mike Sullivan, Joel Quenneville, Jared Bednar, Paul Maurice, Rod Brind'Amour, and Jon Cooper—all boast significantly more experience. Cooper is the only coach yet to be officially revealed, and he is widely expected to claim the top spot.
In his analysis, Adam Proteau of The Hockey News lauded St-Louis's motivational skills, emphasizing that the coach thrives in a high-pressure market and knows how to push the right buttons to inspire confidence in his players. Proteau also mused that while it may be premature, St-Louis—already a Hall of Famer as a player—could one day earn induction as a builder, given his promising start behind the bench.
Originally reported by yardbarker.