Bigger is Better

MONTREAL CANADIENS

2012-13 record: 29-14-5 (63 points)
Lost to Ottawa in Conference quarterfinals
Captain: Brian Gionta

Year one in the Marc Bergevin era started off great, as the Canadiens won the Northeast Division.  However, come playoff time, they were exposed by an Ottawa team that had more size.  To that end, the Canadiens sought to get bigger, and while they still have a ways to go, at the very least, they're competitive once again.  It begins with Norris Trophy winner PK Subban, who finally played to his enormous potential.  It certainly helped that defense partner Andrei Markov was finally able to play a full season, and Markov himself showed little in the way of ill effects from injuries that wiped out almost two full seasons.  Up front is where the Canadiens are needing the most size, as Brendan Gallagher, Daniel Briere, Brian Gionta, and David Desharnais are all 5'10" and under.  If Max Pacioretty can become the power forward the Canadiens desperately need, then things will fall into place.  Otherwise, the pressure falls on Rene Bourque, who needs more consistency in his offense, and Lars Eller, who hasn't played to full potential since being drafted in the first round in 2007.  Goaltending is slowly becoming a sore spot, as Carey Price hasn't been the dominating force the Canadiens envisioned.  Peter Budaj is a good backup, at best, which left the Canadiens little choice but to take Zachary Fucale with one of their second round picks, something that will put the pressure on Price to perform or else he gets replaced down the line.

Prospects:  The blue line will almost certainly get bigger, as Jarred Tinordi acquitted himself well in a playoff cup of coffee.  He figures to be a favorite to join the Canadiens on opening night.  Louis Leblanc and Nathan Beaulieu could also see time during the season.  Forwards need size, but will have to wait on 2013 first rounder Michael McCarron to develop, something that should be accelerated as he will be in London of the OHL.

Prediction: 4th in the Atlantic Division

The Canadiens are still likely to get pushed around, and as long as that happens, it will be up to Carey Price to steal a few games for them.  The Canadiens got a few breaks last year, but don't expect the same results this year, as more teams will be ready for them this time around.