The Montreal Canadiens are once again at the center of heated debate after BPM Sports analysts suggested that Zachary Bolduc could be removed from the lineup to make room for veteran winger Josh Anderson. While not confirmed, the mere possibility has reignited speculation and stirred strong reactions among fans and media alike.
Bolduc, acquired on July 1, 2025 in the trade involving Logan Mailloux, arrived in Montreal with high expectations. Coming off a strong 2024-25 season in St. Louis—72 games played, 19 goals, 17 assists, and 36 points—he was seen as a promising addition to the Canadiens’ future core. Yet his recent struggles, including an eight-game stretch without a point, have fueled doubts about his immediate role.
Analyst Martineau of BPM Sports argued that Bolduc’s inconsistency makes him vulnerable:
“At the Bell Centre, clearly, he’s not able to produce consistently. Very quickly, the pressure is going to be strong. Once Anderson returns, it’s easy for Martin St-Louis to slot him with Gallagher and Danault. So where does Bolduc fit?”
The suggestion that Bolduc could be sent down to Laval—thanks to his entry-level contract status and waiver exemption—was described as a potential “slap in the face” for the young forward. Still, Martineau emphasized that it might be the “easy solution” given Bolduc’s lack of recent production.
On the other side of the debate stands Josh Anderson, the 31-year-old winger whose return from injury is expected to shake up the lineup. Anderson’s 2024-25 campaign included 81 games, 15 goals, and 12 assists, numbers that, while modest, highlight his experience and physical presence. His reinsertion into the roster would create a domino effect, forcing St-Louis to make difficult choices about who stays and who sits.
The controversy underscores a larger tension within the Canadiens: balancing the development of young talent with the reliability of seasoned veterans. For a franchise under constant scrutiny, the decision could shape not only the current season but also the perception of its long-term strategy.
As rumors swirl, one thing is certain: if Bolduc is benched or sent down, Montreal’s hockey community will erupt in debate. The Canadiens are facing a lineup puzzle that could define their trajectory in the weeks ahead.