Canadiens Players Reflect on Olympic Break, Prepare for California Road Trip

MONTREAL – Following an unconventional February marked by participation in the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, the Montreal Canadiens are gearing up for a crucial road trip to California. The team will face the San Jose Sharks, Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings, hoping to build on a recent seven-game unbeaten streak in regulation time.

Olympic Experiences and Return to Play

Several Canadiens players recently represented their countries at the Olympics, including captain Nick Suzuki, who competed for Team Canada as part of the men’s hockey tournament. Suzuki expressed that he adjusted well to the time change upon his return, contributing with three points and a plus-4 differential in the team’s 6-2 victory against the Washington Capitals.

“I did a good job of getting some sleep when I got back from Italy,” Suzuki said. “Jet lag is difficult. I didn’t play that much there, so I came back healthy and full of energy.”

Other Canadiens players who participated in the Olympics include Oliver Kapanen (Finland), Juraj Slafkovsky (Slovakia), and Alexandre Texier (France) .

Road Trip and Trade Deadline Considerations

Head coach Martin St-Louis believes the team’s time together on the road will be beneficial, especially with the NHL trade deadline approaching on Friday. “The deadline is always difficult for everyone,” St-Louis stated. “The fact that we are going to be together, I think it will be positive. The group was separated for a long time. It’s good to go on the road, and having a considerable win will develop our six-hour flight much more pleasant.”

Despite the Canadiens’ recent success, their historical record in California has been challenging, with only four wins in their last 12 games played there. They haven’t won in Los Angeles since March 5, 2019, and face improved Ducks and Sharks teams this season.

Suzuki anticipates minimal changes to the Canadiens roster before the trade deadline, citing the team’s strong performance and salary cap constraints. “Whatever happens, happens,” he said. “We were able to have [Philip Danault] before the other teams act for the deadline. He helps us, and the salary cap situation is tight. We already have a lot of NHL-level talent here, so I don’t expect much.”

Looking Ahead

The Canadiens will begin their California road trip with a game against the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday, followed by matchups against the Anaheim Ducks on Friday and the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday. The team remains focused on continuous improvement, regardless of the outcome of each game.

“There are always opportunities to learn,” St-Louis added. “It will never be perfect. Whether we win or lose, there is always something.”