Montréal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle returns to the ice for the first time since his injury, but which Habs defenseman loses their roster spot when he's ready?

We break down the Jayden Struble versus Arber Xhekaj competition as the Montreal Canadiens prepare to face the New Jersey Devils in their first real benchmark game of the season.

We tackle the disproportionate fan criticism of Joe Valeno, analyzing whether a replacement-level fourth-liner deserves the backlash he's receiving. The conversation shifts to the Canadiens' aggressive search for a second-line center, examining the Nazem Kadri rumors and NHL insiders' revelation that Montreal's front office has been doing extensive homework on every potentially available centre in the league. Key discussions include the team's elite bottom-six philosophy, Lane Hutson's development, and why the organization remains patient despite early-season frustrations.

Discover why the Canadiens' front office strategy could reshape their playoff trajectory and whether Kadri fits their long-term vision.

0:00 Intro
1:06 Kaiden Guhle skating update and recovery timeline
2:33 Marc Del Gaizo called up as emergency body
3:52 Struble vs Arber Xhekaj battle for roster spot
6:20 Jake Allen outperforming Markstrom for New Jersey
8:12 Devils present first real test for Canadiens
11:37 Joe Veleno criticism overblown by fanbase
14:18 Bottom six missing some elite talent right now
17:46 No rush to upgrade fourth line
20:25 Second line center search remains top priority
23:27 Canadiens scouting every potential center available
26:04 Nazem Kadri concerns and availability questions
29:36 Trivia question and social media callout

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