Nick Suzuki gives Martin St-Louis a true first-line center, but Montreal still lacks a dependable answer behind him.
The Canadiens' second-line center spot remains the clearest weakness on the roster despite progress across the rest of the lineup.
A league-wide comparison placed Montreal among teams with a strong No. 1 center and a below-average option in the next slot.
Jake Evans and Oliver Kapanen currently sit closest to that role, but neither has locked down the type of offensive assignment expected from a top-six center.
That leaves Suzuki carrying too much of the attack through the middle. Montreal can survive stretches with that structure, but it becomes harder when matchups tighten.
The Canadiens also aren't alone. Nearly two-thirds of NHL teams face a similar problem, which explains why proven centers rarely become available at a reasonable price.
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Canadiens' center depth raises major concerns ahead of the season
Michael Hage remains a major part of the long-term plan. The organization clearly hopes he can grow into the second-line role over the next few seasons.
But Hage's presence in the system doesn't solve the immediate problem. Kent Hughes still has to decide whether Montreal can wait or needs outside help now.
Suzuki's durability has protected the Canadiens from a deeper crisis. He hasn't missed a game since reaching the NHL, giving St-Louis rare stability in the top six.
That streak also hides the risk. An injury to Suzuki would force Kapanen, Evans or Phillip Danault into a first-line assignment with no clear replacement behind them.
Montreal has improved on the wings and built a young blue line, but center depth remains the position that could stall the next step.
Hughes doesn't need to chase a name simply to make a move. He needs a player who can support skilled wingers, handle difficult matchups and keep the lineup balanced.
The pressure now comes from timing. If the Canadiens expect to compete, waiting several years for an internal answer may no longer match the rest of the roster.
Suzuki gives Montreal a foundation. Hughes' next challenge is making sure the entire attack doesn't collapse if that foundation is ever unavailable.
Source : Every NHL team's top-6 center duos, ranked from best to worst
Must Kent Hughes acquire a second-line center before the season?
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