Despite a tough month that included a lengthy losing streak, the Habs still find themselves in a fight for a playoff spot. They turned things around in time for December and continue to have very strong underlying numbers – led by a dominating first line and a solid defensive pairing which both feature prominently in our three stars.
First Star: Shea Weber
After an injury-filled 2018-19, Weber started this season at full health and has clearly benefited from the full offseason training regimen. Rather than showing signs of decline, the captain has turned back the clock and is playing some of his best hockey at age 34. At the time of writing, he ranked second in team scoring and is on pace for his fourth 20-goal season.
Weber has been a major factor for the Canadiens on and off the ice this season and a Norris Trophy nomination could be in the cards if he maintains his level of play.
Stats: 13 GP, 6 G, 6 A, 12 PTS, +6 rating
Second Star: Brendan Gallagher
Gallagher is so valuable and well respected that despite a down month he was once again voted to the three stars by HabsWorld readers. Over the past two seasons, Gallagher has been a fixture on this list and he continues to be the straw that stirs the drink for the Canadiens. He appears to be bound for his third straight 30-goal campaign and would almost certainly be team captain if not for Weber’s presence.
Stats: 13 GP, 3 G, 4 A, 7 PTS, 0 rating
Third Star: Tomas Tatar
Tatar has found himself in Claude Julien’s doghouse at times this season but despite some tough moments, he’s leading the club in scoring and is scoring at just under a point per game pace. Tatar remains an integral part of one the best 5-on-5 lines in the NHL alongside Gallagher and Phillip Danault.
Since coming over in the Max Pacioretty trade, Tatar has been a steady contributor and has certainly provided far more value than initially advertised.
Stats: 13 GP, 5 G, 8 A, 13 PTS, -7 rating
Honourable Mention: Ben Chiarot
There was very little fanfare when Chiarot signed in the offseason, in fact, most fans were disappointed at the lack of a premier signing. He’s far from a superstar but Chiarot has been far better than anticipated, particularly since being paired with Weber after Victor Mete got injured. He’s come into his own and has been playing big minutes with great success. He also brings underrated puck-moving abilities to the table.
Stats: 13 GP, 2 G, 8 A, 8 PTS, +1 rating