In the world of hockey, draft night often leaves lasting impressions, and for fans of the Montreal Canadiens, the 2022 draft is no exception. The spotlight was on Shane Wright, the Seattle Kraken forward, who made headlines that night with his intense gaze directed at the Canadiens’ table. This moment has become a significant part of the narrative surrounding both Wright and his counterpart, Juraj Slafkovsky, the Canadiens’ first overall pick.
As the 2024 season unfolds, discussions about Slafkovsky’s performance have intensified. Despite accumulating 13 points in 19 games, the Slovak forward has only managed to score two goals, leading to growing skepticism among fans and analysts alike. Expectations were high for Slafkovsky, and his long-term contract has not quelled the doubts surrounding his potential impact on the team.
On the other hand, Shane Wright’s journey since being drafted has seen its share of ups and downs. However, recent performances suggest he may be finding his rhythm. After being benched in games on November 17, 20, and 23, Wright appeared to respond positively. During a high-scoring matchup against the San Jose Sharks on Black Friday, Wright matched Slafkovsky’s season goal tally by scoring two goals in the game, contributing to a total of five points in his last two and a half games.
Breaking down the statistics, Shane Wright has recorded three goals and two assists for a total of five points in just the last two and a half games. Meanwhile, Will Smith, who was drafted fourth overall in 2024 by the Sharks, is also making headlines. Smith finished the same game against the Kraken with two points, bringing his total to six points in his last three games, indicating that both young talents are beginning to find their footing in the league.
While Wright’s recent scoring surge has certainly caught the attention of Slafkovsky’s critics, it’s essential to contextualize their performances. Despite having fewer goals, Slafkovsky has significantly more points overall, with 13 to Wright’s 7. Slafkovsky’s physical style of play adds another layer to his game, but this season has revealed areas needing improvement.
As fans and analysts continue to dissect the performances of these two players, it’s worth noting that Wright’s resurgence could serve as a blueprint for Slafkovsky. By rediscovering his scoring touch, Wright has shown that perseverance can lead to success, a message that Slafkovsky might take to heart as he looks to elevate his game.
In other news, former Canadiens player Tomas Plekanec has spoken highly of his ex-teammate Brendan Gallagher, who, at 32 years old and in his 13th season with the Canadiens, appears to be playing some of the best hockey of his career. Gallagher’s rejuvenated performance has sparked conversations about his efficiency on the ice, further enhancing the Canadiens’ competitive edge.
As the Canadiens prepare for their upcoming game against the New York Rangers, questions arise about whether they can capitalize on the Rangers’ recent struggles. The anticipation builds as fans eagerly await to see how both teams will perform.
Meanwhile, Macklin Celebrini, another promising talent, has been on a scoring tear since November 21st, netting four goals and accumulating eight points over five games. His impressive performance adds to the excitement surrounding young players making their mark in the league.
As the season progresses, the narratives surrounding Wright, Slafkovsky, and other emerging stars will continue to evolve, captivating fans and analysts alike in the ever-competitive landscape of the NHL.
