Habs: Alex Newhook’s Return and the Lineup Decisions Facing Montreal

As Montreal Canadiens forward Alex Newhook gets closer to returning from injury, the team faces a compelling, yet challenging, situation. While his absence allowed other players to shine, the Canadiens now have to determine where he best fits into a lineup that’s performing well. This was, in fact, the anticipated scenario when he suffered his ankle injury back in November – a healthy Newhook would present a beneficial dilemma.

Newhook enjoyed a strong start to the season, playing alongside rookies Oliver Kapanen and Ivan Demidov. He registered six goals and 12 points in his first 17 games, translating to a 58-point pace over a full 82-game season. This production mirrored his first season with the Canadiens in 2023-24, where he tallied 15 goals and 34 points in 55 games. While he matched his career-high goal total of 15 in 2024-25, his overall impact was less pronounced, finishing with 26 points across a complete season.

The Enigma of Alex Newhook

So, which version of Alex Newhook will the Canadiens see? At the very least, he’s a versatile player capable of contributing anywhere in the lineup. But where will he ultimately be deployed? Let’s examine the five most likely scenarios, ranked from least to most probable:

1. Replacing Brendan Gallagher

While Gallagher experienced a resurgence last season, his current production (six goals and 19 points in 57 games) suggests he’s showing his age. Despite his dedication to the team since 2012, his less-than-ideal contract, including a no-movement clause, presents challenges. However, his line with Phillip Danault and Josh Anderson has been effective, making a change unlikely.

2. On a Line with Jake Evans, Joe Veleno and Zachary Bolduc

The fourth line, currently featuring Jake Evans, Joe Veleno, and Zachary Bolduc, could benefit from Newhook’s speed and offensive skill. Veleno, a former first-round pick, hasn’t fully lived up to expectations, with only two goals and four points in his time with the Canadiens. Newhook’s addition would provide a significant upgrade in this area.

3. Replacing Juraj Slafkovsky

Replacing Slafkovsky on the wing of the Demidov line seems unlikely. Slafkovsky has shown significant development since joining that line, already surpassing his previous career-high in goals (now at 21 with 25 games remaining). However, Slafkovsky could easily slot back into the top line with Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, a highly effective unit from previous seasons.

4. Playing Centre Alongside Demidov and Kapanen

Considering Kapanen and Demidov’s success together, the Canadiens might explore the possibility of Newhook centering that line. Newhook is a natural centre, although his faceoff percentage (44.3%) has been a concern. Kapanen’s improvement in the faceoff circle (47.3%) could make this a viable option, allowing the team to maintain a potent offensive threat.

5. On the Wing with Suzuki and Caufield

This is the most likely scenario. While Newhook struggled in this role earlier in the season, his return could provide a spark to the top line. Head coach Martin St. Louis may prefer two dangerous lines over relying heavily on one super line, and Newhook’s versatility makes him a valuable asset in this position.

Newhook’s impending return is a positive sign for the Canadiens. While he may not replicate his early-season point production immediately, his presence adds depth and skill to the lineup. Fans should be excited about the potential of Bolduc playing alongside a more offensively gifted player like Newhook. Having proven his capabilities in Montreal, Newhook’s return is something to look forward to, even if it means a difficult decision for someone like Veleno. Given the opportunity, the choice to play Newhook is a clear win for the team.

Source: The Hockey Writers