The Montreal Canadiens were very active this offseason. Last year’s late-season run to make the playoffs saw their young core blossom in front of the hockey world, so general manager Kent Hughes made sure to strike while the iron was hot this summer.
Acquiring star defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders was the headline move not only for the Canadiens but potentially for the offseason as a whole. While Dobson understandably receives much of the focus, the acquisition of forward Zack Bolduc from St. Louis could be just as important.
Analyst Marc-Olivier Cook recently shared his excitement for Bolduc, comparing his wrist shot to that of Patrik Laine when on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro.
“His wrist shot is unbelievable. I don’t know if it’s a hot take; I think so. But his wrist shot is as good, or maybe even better than Laine’s wrist shot. I think so. I swear,” Cook said.
He was then asked if Bolduc’s shot is heavy or fast.
“Both. That’s what I like. And that’s why I think he was so good at the bumper position in St. Louis,” Cook added.
Zack Bolduc could give Patrik Laine a run for his money! 😳@Cook_Marco: “His wrist shot is unbelievable… His wrist shot is as good, or maybe even better than Laine’s wrist shot!”#GoHabsGo #thesickpodcast @TonyMarinaro pic.twitter.com/ZuezbtzoNM
— The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro (@thesickpodcasts) August 26, 2025
The 22-year-old had a great first full season in the NHL, potting 19 goals and 17 assists for 36 points in 72 games played for the Blues in 2024-25.
Bolduc should see plenty of opportunity in Montreal
Zack Bolduc was not a name many expected to see traded this offseason, but now that he’s a Montreal Canadien, he could flourish with increased opportunity.
The 2021 first-rounder (17th overall) averaged just 12:48 minutes of ice time per game last year in St. Louis, a number that will very likely go up in Montreal. The Habs are looking for someone to step in and grab the second-line center role, and Bolduc is capable of doing so.
As a native of Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Bolduc was thrilled to learn the news that he was joining his hometown team, so he has all the makings of being a fan favorite for years to come.
