3 Montreal Canadiens Not Expected Back Next Season

The Montreal Canadiens are one of the NHL's most entertaining teams, both on and off the ice. GM Kent Hughes has assembled a talented young core, and so far this season, it appears the Habs are going to exceed expectations, and potentially make some noise in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Off the ice, Hughes has constructed the best farm system in the league, and don't be surprised to see Hughes move some prospects at the NHL Draft and upgrade his lineup. There's going to be changes in Montreal, it's evitable year over year, so here's three Canadiens who aren't expected back next season.

Patrik Laine

Word is the Canadiens are not happy with Laine's commitment off the ice with training, and when he's been healthy enough to dress, his production on the ice has left much to desire. Laine's name came up in several trade talks ahead of the deadline, as Hughes was trying to use his contract to ensure the financials of a big deal worked out. Look for the Canadiens to walk away from Laine in the offseason and let him walk into free agency July 1.

Sam Montembeault

Speculation was running wild around Montembeault ahead of the trade deadline, as reportedly he was close to being moved to the St. Louis Blues for Jordan Binnington. Montembeault hasn't lived up to expectations since signing an extension in Montreal, and with his contract not carrying any no-trade protection, expect to see Hughes move on from his former starting goalie, and giving the keys to Jacob Fowler.

Kirby Dach

Dach's had a tough go so far throughout his career, as he can't seem to stay healthy for a majority of a season. Dach's appeared in just 34 games this season, posting 14 points, and as a pending restricted free agent, don't be surprised to see the Canadiens either move Dach at the draft, or move on from him before July. 

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images