from Ryan Dixon of Sportsnet,

Biggest storyline to watch: With Gionta and Gorges gone, this team has really been turned over to the next generation of Price, Subban and Pacioretty. Can they be the guys who lead Montreal back to elite status? It will be interesting to monitor how the top-nine forward group shakes out. Rene Bourque was a beast, at times, in the playoffs, but is there any chance he returns to 20-goal form? Parenteau will get a real chance to shine offensively, so we’ll see if he can put together a productive season. Sekac is a six-foot-two late-bloomer, and it seems reasonable to assume part of the reason he chose Montreal from a dozen or so suitors is because the Habs indicated there was a roster spot to be had. On the back end, Nathan Beaulieu and Jarred Tinordi both seem primed to make the full-time jump. Beaulieu brings speed and offensive awareness, while Tinordi moves well for a guy who stands six-foot-six. If both hit their stride, it will be a major boon to the blue line.

2014-15 prediction: Montreal will be good enough to make the playoffs but is in for a shorter spring than it experienced last season.

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