Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki was not always in the position he is now. In fact, if it were not for the trade that brought him over from the Vegas Golden Knights, he might not be the player he is today. He is getting better with every season played and is now on the cusp of doing something he has not done in the NHL; reaching 100 points in a season.
Suzuki could reach a rare feat with the Canadiens
Suzuki was traded by the Golden Knights to the Canadiens in September 2018 in exchange for Max Pacioretty. That is seemingly where Suzuki's career took off. He has been incredibly consistent in his play in a Montreal sweater and was even named captain of the historic franchise. His point production has risen each season with a career-high 89 points last season. This season, he is well on his way to the 100-point season, grabbing seven assists in five games.
With the additions of forward Ivan Demidov and defenseman Noah Dobson, it appears that 100 points is well within reach if he stays healthy. The last Canadians player to reach 100 points was Mats Naslund, who had 110 points during the 1985-86 season. Suzuki's last five seasons with point totals include 41-61-66-76-89. He has 375 points in 456 games.
Added pieces could increase offensive production
As mentioned, Demidov and Dobson could be big players if he reaches that total. Demidov is an explosive forward with tremendous offensivepotential and Dobson is an underrated offensive defenseman. They alone could add 20 points to this overall total this season. Not to mention another season of phenom Juraj Slafkovsky on his line giving the fact Slafkovsky is another year of experience and potential. Suzuki has a steady progression as he has gotten better over time in the offensive zone and it shows in his yearly stats.
The Canadiens' season comes first and how far they go is the ultimate goal. However, on a personal leve, the passion and dedication Suzuki plays with are fully beneficial for both individual success and the success of the team. The better he plays then the better the team plays, thus more playoff success.
Montreal is a team that is severely underrated going into the season andf is playing well so far. Suzuki will take the team as far as he can but will need some help from every position. Suzuki needs to focus on team goals first but do not be surprised if he does in fact hit 100 points this season based on his skill set and the players around him. This may be the best team Montreal has put on ice in a few years and the captain is steering the ship. Suzuki is in control of how far this team goes this season and it could be a fun ride.