Here’s a bold statement for you: the Montreal Canadiens’ practice on December 10, 2025, was anything but ordinary. But here’s where it gets exciting—three fresh faces joined the team as they kicked off their highly anticipated Mentors’ Trip. Forward Owen Beck, defenseman Adam Engstrom, and goalie Jacob Fowler were called up from Laval, injecting new energy into the lineup. And this is the part most people miss: this trip isn’t just about hockey; it’s about honoring the mentors who shaped these players’ careers. Controversial question: Does this tradition give the team an emotional edge on the ice? Let’s dive in.
At the CN Sports Complex in Brossard, the trio joined the Habs for a dynamic practice session. Before the main skate, Fowler teamed up with goalies Jakub Dobes and Samuel Montembeault for specialized drills with coach Eric Raymond, while several skaters joined in for additional exercises. Here’s the lineup that has fans buzzing:
Forwards:
Caufield (13), Suzuki (14), Bolduc (76), Slafkovsky (20), Kapanen (91), Demidov (93), Anderson (17), Beck (62), Texier (85), Davidson (49), Veleno (90), Gallagher (11).
Defensemen:
Matheson (8), Dobson (53), Struble/Engstrom/Hutson (47/42/48), Xhekaj (72), Carrier (45).
Goalies:
Dobes (75), Fowler (32), Montembeault (35).
And this is the part most people miss: Wednesday’s practice doubled as a travel day, as the Canadiens embarked on a two-game road trip to Pittsburgh and Manhattan. Notably, forward Jake Evans was absent for personal reasons but will rejoin the team in New York. Bold interpretation: Could this absence impact the team’s chemistry on the road?
The Mentors’ Trip adds a unique layer to this journey. Each player invites a mentor—someone who played a pivotal role in their development—to join them for a few nights on the road. Many of these mentors were in the stands, watching their protégés in action. Controversial question: Does this tradition distract from the game, or does it strengthen the team’s bond?
Looking ahead, the Canadiens face the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. ET, followed by a showdown with the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, also at 7:00 p.m. ET. They’ll then return to Montreal for their final homestand of 2025. Thought-provoking question for you: How do you think the Mentors’ Trip will influence the team’s performance this week? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
