The Habs are still searching for their identity, especially on defense. Kaiden Guhle's long-term injury leaves six Habs defensemen without backup.
This leads to many errors and inconsistent results.
The last two games were better, but we are far from satisfied. There are also problems scoring goals, and Lane Hutson seems to be the only one capable of scoring them.
The question is: when will Adam Engstrom be recalled? BPM Sports host Anthony Marcotte asked the question on X a few hours ago.
Watching Adam Engstrom perform again tonight with Rocket, we must be very close to the first recall in Montreal. As soon as we can give him some ice time, it will be his turn. By far Laval's best defender this season.
– Anthony Marcotte (@anthonymarcotte) November 20, 2025
According to Marcotte, Engstrom is the Rocket's best defenseman, but he doesn't think the Habs are in a position to give him ice time right now.
I beg to differ. It's not like the Habs have a great defensive crew right now. Yes, all six are NHL-caliber, but it's not true that this unit can't be better.
The arrival of a player like Engström could spark some competition that would benefit everyone. Jayden Struble and Arber Czekay are very comfortable in their roles, perhaps too comfortable.
Engstrom has three goals and five assists in 16 games. He added a gem tonight, scoring in a superb run. Unfortunately for him, Rocket lost.
Adam Engström scores a very beautiful goal and opens the scoring for Laval Rocket. #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/L40rTRRraf
– Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) November 20, 2025
He almost scored a second with a beautiful maneuver.
Adam Engström almost scored another great goal, but he hit the target.
His excellent skating, according to tradition, showed itself in all its glory. #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/sTu8Tm1vjm
– Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) November 20, 2025
The Swedish guard could add some good mobility that wouldn't hurt the third pairing, especially in hopes of reviving the Habs offensively. I also don't buy the theory that he would be useless playing for less than ten minutes. Due to Matheson's presence, Engstrom is unable to enter through the front door.
After a while
– Interesting question.
Are the Canadiens closer to the Stanley Cup than the Leafs? pic.twitter.com/FeeE1myUux
– L'Antichambre (@Antichambre) November 20, 2025
“It won’t be easy tomorrow night.”
The Habs better be ready on Thursday as the Capitals come to Montreal with back-to-back wins in their pocket.
https://t.co/e9GXnYHBqM
– TVA Sports (@TVASports) November 20, 2025
– Tough loss for the Islanders.
According to our hockey expert @renlavoietvaIn the case of Alexander Romanov, the Islanders expect a fairly long absence.
pic.twitter.com/wiDivAKVkj
– TVA Sports (@TVASports) November 20, 2025
