Arber Xhekaj's evolution tantalizes Canadiens fans. Is the young defenseman poised for a standout season?
We break down Xhekaj's impressive growth, highlighting his improved decision-making and ability to draw penalties. We also analyze recent roster rumors, including the team's stance on Evgeny Kuznetsov and potential moves to bolster the center position. We also reveal our "all-time I hated that guy" lineups, featuring some potentially controversial picks. Who would make your lineup?
Discover why those Canadiens players frustrated fans in the past and how their performances shaped the team's history. How will Xhekaj's development impact Montreal's defensive strategy next season?

0:00 Intro: Arber Xhekaj season review and lineup discussion
5:55 Arber Xhekaj's growth and patience this season
11:55 Updated Habs roster rumors and rumblings
18:30 Concerns about replacing Christian Dvorak's role
23:18 All-time "I hated that guy" Habs lineup
29:54 What held analytics back in Montreal
34:40 Trivia question about college teammates

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed
Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to Indeed.com/LOCKEDON right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

How were we wrong about the 2024-25 Canadiens? Should Juraj Slafkovsky and Kirby Dach play together again? Is more NHL expansion a bad idea?

In our Friday mailbag, Ian and Laura answer your questions like what if the Habs had goal songs for each player? And what current trade rumours do we hope come true?

0:00 Intro: Mailbag episode and admitting mistakes

5:06 Playoff experience valuable for young Canadiens

10:34 Prospects' mindset amid trade rumors

15:06 Who should give Dobson/Bolduc Montreal tour?

21:49 Potential Slafkovsky-Dach line next season

26:06 Concerns about further NHL expansion

29:19 Recasting classic Canadiens commercials

31:52 Trivia question about Mark Recchi

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Who would the Montreal Canadiens protect in a hypothetical NHL expansion draft? Will the Habs lose a key player in the next 3-4 years?
We dissect potential strategies to shield core talents like Suzuki, Caufield, and Slafkovsky. We also explore Patrik Laine's future in Montreal, analyzing his comeback from injuries and mental health challenges. We also tackle the contentious topic of converting wingers to centers, with skepticism about Ivan Demidov and Zachary Bolduc's rumored position changes. Kirby Dach's potential as a second-line center sparks debate, considering his injury history and the team's apparent faith in him.
Tune in for expert analysis on the Canadiens' roster decisions and their impact on the team's future success.

0:00 Intro: Looking ahead to hypothetical expansion draft
5:34 Who to protect in potential expansion draft
10:47 Sponsor: Take control with Monarch Money
12:18 Patrik Laine's future with the Canadiens
22:09 Concerns about converting wingers to centers
27:14 Kirby Dach's potential as second-line center
29:33 Trivia question and YouTube subscriber contest

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Montreal Canadiens need a 2C, but that should not stop them from improving their team in other ways. How can they accomplish that this summer? Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down why acquiring a top-6 winger would be a good idea for the Canadiens even if they are not able to add a 2C. The NHL and NHLPA ratified their new CBA this week. Ian and Laura discuss the changes they like and the ones they don't. And finally, after reviewing the Atlantic division teams, the Metropolitan division gets its turn on Locked On Canadiens.

0:00 Intro: New CBA ratified, Canadiens' needs

5:22 Salary retention limits and playoff cap changes

10:11 Jordan Kyrou rumors and Canadiens' needs

15:47 Addressing fan concerns about potential trades

21:26 Metropolitan Division changes: Hurricanes and Blue Jackets

27:27 Devils' identity crisis and Rangers' struggles

32:02 Capitals resting on laurels, playoff predictions

34:38 Trivia question on 2012 draft picks

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Montreal Canadiens trade rumors heat up! Is Mike Matheson on the move? Is Evgeny Kuznetsov of interest to the Montreal?

We analyze potential roster shakeups for the Habs and break down Matheson's trade value, Kuznetsov's fit in the lineup, and how these moves could impact the team's rebuild strategy. We then debate whether recent performances from Nick Suzuki and Lane Hutson are accelerating expectations for the Canadiens' future.

Tune in for insights on the Canadiens' path forward and a chance to win signed player memorabilia!

0:00 Mike Matheson trade rumors
5:38 Evaluating Matheson's value and potential trade
11:10 Rumor: Canadiens interested in Evgeny Kuznetsov
17:47 Discussing Kuznetsov's past and potential redemption
22:50 Contest announcement for signed player pictures
26:50 Debating the rush to solve Canadiens' issues
31:22 Trivia question on 2012 NHL draft

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The rumours connecting Jordan Kyrou to the Canadiens won't go away. Does this trade still make sense for the Canadiens?
Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down this trade rumour and whether or not this trade is a fit for Montreal. The hosts also discuss the latest free agent news in Montreal including Jakub Dobes' new contract and Jayden Struble's incoming salary arbitration. And finally, Ian and Laura define "untouchable" and list the players they would consider to be imperative to the team's success.

0:00 RFA news and Jordan Kyrou rumors

5:14 Jakub Dobeš signs two-year contract with Canadiens

10:02 Jayden Struble elects for salary arbitration

15:26 Jordan Kyrou trade rumors persist

21:40 Defining "untouchable" players for Canadiens

26:52 Evaluating Canadiens roster for untouchable status

32:35 Trivia question on Canadiens' heavyweight players

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders shook up their rosters in blockbuster trade last week. Will Noah Dobson's offensive prowess elevate Montreal's blue line?

We welcome Gil Martin of Locked On Islanders to break down the Dobson-Heineman swap, analyzing its impact on both teams' futures. Gil offers us insider perspectives on Dobson's consistency issues and Heineman's underrated shooting ability. The hosts explore New York's organizational changes, improved prospect pool, and potential for a quick turnaround. Finally, Montreal's progress takes center stage, with Nick Suzuki's point-per-game season and Cole Caufield's surge as key talking points.

Tune in for analysis on how these moves reshape the Eastern Conference landscape and each team's playoff chances.

0:00 Intro: Special crossover episode with Locked On Islanders
2:05 Noah Dobson's strengths and weaknesses
10:28 Emil Heineman's potential impact for the Islanders
17:41 Patrick Roy's role in developing young talent
21:13 Canadiens' progress and future outlook
26:26 Importance of smart cap management for GMs
31:50 Wrapping up and where to find the hosts

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings, David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild are here to talk about the big moves of free agency so far, including the Mitch Marner saga finally coming to an end, what the heck the LA Kings are doing, and where Nikolaj Ehlers is going to end up!

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year.
FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 bet wins!
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)