Nick Suzuki’s Shootout Struggles and Canadiens’ Offensive Challenges

The Montreal Canadiens suffered a shootout loss to the Anaheim Ducks on March 7, 2026, continuing a pattern of high-scoring games that ultimately don’t translate into wins. A key point of concern for fans and analysts alike is the performance of captain Nick Suzuki in shootouts.

Suzuki’s Prolonged Shootout Drought

Suzuki has now missed his last 16 shootout attempts, with his last successful shootout goal occurring on December 13, 2023. This extended slump raises questions about his continued role as a top shootout option for the Canadiens.

Questioning the Captain’s Shootout Position

Despite his recent struggles, Suzuki remains one of the coach’s trusted players in shootouts. However, some observers question whether he would maintain this position if not for his captaincy. The prolonged failure raises concerns about the psychological impact on Suzuki and the team’s overall shootout strategy.

Past Success vs. Current Struggles

Early in his career, Suzuki was a reliable scorer in shootouts. However, he has been unable to convert a shootout attempt in over two years, leading to frustration among fans and a need for the team to explore alternative options.

Potential Alternatives and Lineup Considerations

Suggestions have been made to offer other players opportunities in shootouts, such as Juraj Slafkovský, who was not among the initial six shooters against the Ducks. Ivan Demidov, known for his skilled hands, was as well utilized later in the shootout. The potential return of Alexandre Texier to the lineup is also seen as a possible boost in this area.

Other News from March 7, 2026

• Corey Perry will play for the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight.
• Oliver Ekman-Larsson expressed relief at remaining with the Toronto Maple Leafs but acknowledged the difficulty of being a trade target.
• The Canadiens held a morning training session at Marie-Victorin, though the scheduled start time was incorrect.

As the Canadiens navigate their offensive challenges, addressing Suzuki’s shootout struggles and exploring alternative options will be crucial for improving their success in close games.