Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkovsky

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

For the first time in weeks, Juraj Slafkovsky didn’t just look engaged, he looked in control of the game against Toronto from his opening shift.

His pace was higher, his puck decisions were quicker, and he consistently created clean exits and controlled entries… Areas where he has struggled this season, and analysts quickly took notice.

Why Slafkovsky’s Breakout vs Toronto Matters for the Canadiens

On social media, reactions multiplied, and they were unanimous.

“Is this the best Slafkovsky has ever looked?”

Marco D’Amico also highlighted a key element:

“Juraj Slafkovsky has been dangerous in transition tonight. His mobility with the puck on his stick has been noticeably better.”

– Marco D’Amico

This performance is a reminder of something easy to overlook: Slafkovsky’s development curve is still early, and nights like this show why the organization keeps preaching patience.

If he delivers this level of play night after night, he could become a crucial pillar for the Canadiens.

The version of Slafkovsky we saw against the Maple Leafs truly gives hope. One wonders if the Canadiens may finally have their long-awaited power winger in hand.

Of course, there is still work to be done, but this game says a lot. When he carries the puck with authority and shoots with conviction, he becomes very difficult to stop.

Maybe this is the start of something special for him.

And Martin St-Louis must certainly feel he has something special in his hands.

POLL

21 MINUTES AGO   |   19 ANSWERS

What Slafkovsky did against the Maple Leafs changes the entire conversation in Montreal

Do you think Juraj Slafkovsky can become a true dominant forward in the NHL?