Montreal’s Hockey Scene: 20 Influential Figures Shaping the Game

Montreal remains a hockey mecca, even without a Stanley Cup parade since 1993. The city’s passion for the sport is palpable, with fans actively engaging in heated discussions about their beloved Canadiens. As the team strives for a return to glory, hockey has become a central aspect of daily life in Montreal, transcending cultural and linguistic divides. In this vibrant atmosphere, a select group of individuals significantly influences the direction and spirit of hockey in the city. This article highlights the twenty most powerful figures shaping the landscape of Montreal hockey today.

Key Influencers in Montreal Hockey

1. **Jeff Gorton**
As the executive vice-president of hockey operations for the Montreal Canadiens, Gorton took a bold approach following the firing of general manager Marc Bergevin. He initiated a complete rebuild of the team, bringing in **Kent Hughes** as general manager and **Martin St. Louis** as head coach. His focus on modernizing hockey operations, including establishing an analytics department, has set the foundation for a new era in the franchise. Gorton’s extensive experience began as an intern with the Boston Bruins, ultimately leading him to pivotal roles with both the Bruins and the New York Rangers before joining Montreal.

2. **Kent Hughes**
Hughes, appointed as general manager in January 2022, has quickly established himself as a crucial figure in the Canadiens’ rebuild. With over twenty years as a player agent, his unique perspective has already yielded results, leading the team to the playoffs in Year 3 of their rebuilding plan. His ability to communicate effectively in both English and French has made him a favorite among the media and fans alike, reinforcing his position within the organization.

3. **Martin St. Louis**
The head coach of the Canadiens, St. Louis has garnered significant attention and respect in Montreal. His ability to inspire players and connect with fans has been compared to legendary coaches from the past. As a finalist for the Jack Adams Award, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, fostering a culture of determination within the team.

4. **Nick Suzuki**
As the 31st captain in Canadiens history, Suzuki has proven to be a pivotal leader on and off the ice. His performance last season, particularly leading the team into the playoffs, showcased his determination and skill. By conducting interviews in French, Suzuki has endeared himself to fans, demonstrating a deep understanding of the responsibilities that come with the captaincy.

5. **Geoff Molson**
The owner of the Canadiens since 2009, Molson played a crucial role in acquiring the franchise for **$575 million**, a record at the time. Under his leadership, the team’s value has soared to an estimated **$3 billion**. Molson’s willingness to embrace change, including initiating a full rebuild in 2021, has positioned the franchise for future success.

6. **Marie-Philip Poulin**
Regarded as a trailblazer in women’s hockey, Poulin has inspired countless young athletes. Currently serving as a player development consultant for the Canadiens, her influence extends beyond the rink as she continues to excel on the ice. With three Olympic gold medals to her name, Poulin’s contributions to the sport are immeasurable.

7. **France-Margaret Bélanger**
As the first woman to sit on the executive committee of the Canadiens, Bélanger has made significant strides in promoting diversity within the organization. Her role as president of sports and entertainment for Groupe CH underscores her influence in both hockey and broader entertainment sectors.

8. **Adam Nicholas**
Nicholas serves as the director of hockey development, focusing on improving player skills and understanding of the game. His dedication to training has earned him the respect of players, who commend his insightful coaching methods.

9. **Chantal Machabée**
With a storied career in sports media, Machabée has revitalized the Canadiens’ communications strategy since joining the team. Her experience as a former journalist allows her to foster better relationships between players and the media, enhancing the overall narrative of the team.

10. **Pierre Houde**
A beloved figure among Canadiens fans, Houde’s catchphrase “Et le buuuuuuut!” resonates with audiences across linguistic lines. His decades-long tenure as a play-by-play commentator on RDS has solidified his status as one of the most recognizable voices in hockey.

Emerging Stars and Established Legends

11. **Lane Hutson**
Selected in the second round of the 2022 NHL Draft, Hutson quickly made a name for himself by winning the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie. His record-breaking performance reflects not only his talent but also the Canadiens’ commitment to nurturing young players.

12. **François Gagnon**
Recognized for his contributions to hockey journalism, Gagnon’s induction into the media wing of the Hockey Hall of Fame highlights his impact on the sport. His analytical approach to commentary has earned him respect from both peers and fans.

13. **Pascal Vincent**
As head coach of the AHL’s Laval Rocket, Vincent has successfully guided a young team to impressive results. His leadership has been instrumental in developing future NHL talent within the Canadiens’ system.

14. **Danièle Sauvageau**
Sauvageau’s groundbreaking career includes coaching the Canadian women’s team to Olympic gold. As general manager of the PWHL’s Montreal Victoire, she continues to pave the way for women in sports.

15. **Tony Marinaro**
With his transition to independent media through his Sick Podcast, Marinaro has maintained a strong presence in the hockey commentary landscape. His ability to connect with a bilingual audience showcases the evolving nature of sports media.

16. **Pat Brisson**
As the agent for Sidney Crosby, Brisson holds considerable influence in the hockey world. His negotiations could shape the future of the Canadiens, especially if Crosby considers a move to Montreal.

17. **Marc de Foy**
A veteran sports journalist, de Foy’s long-standing coverage of the Canadiens has made him a respected figure in the media. His insights and analysis continue to engage fans and shape public discourse around the team.

18. **Martin Lapointe**
Serving as director of player personnel and amateur scouting, Lapointe’s experience as a former NHL player enhances the Canadiens’ scouting and development efforts.

19. **Christopher Boucher**
Boucher has established the Canadiens’ analytics department, emphasizing the importance of data in player evaluation and strategic planning. His insights are crucial for the organization’s decision-making processes.

20. **HFTV**
Comprising Cédrik Séguin and Alex Rougas, HFTV brings a fresh perspective to hockey fandom in Montreal. Their engaging social media content captures the essence of Canadiens fans, creating a community that resonates both locally and online.

The Montreal hockey landscape is rich with influential figures, each contributing to the collective narrative of the sport. Their combined efforts continue to drive the passion and enthusiasm that define hockey culture in this vibrant city. While this list captures some of the most prominent personalities, the conversation about who shapes Montreal hockey remains open, inviting fans to share their thoughts and opinions.