Montreal Canadiens 2023-24 Season Grades: Defense and Goaltending

Following the conclusion of the 2023-24 NHL regular season, rebuilding and other non-playoff teams have begun to look towards the future — the draft, free agency, or simply following the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Montreal Canadiens have a relatively young and inexperienced defensive corps and goaltending tandem – David Savard is the only Canadiens defenseman (or goalie) over the age of 30 – and much of their young defensive group continues to grow and refine their game as they approach the prime of their career. While the team's 2024-25 roster will likely look slightly different — specifically with Lane Hutson in the mix — here's a reflection on how each defenseman and goaltender performed relative to expectations. Mike Matheson has improved his offensive output significantly since joining the Canadiens in the trade that sent Jeff Petry to the Pittsburgh Penguins in July 2022.