samuel blais

Samuel Blais Back in the Spotlight: Canadiens Recall Forward Amid Penguins Showdown

The Montreal Canadiens’ roster shuffle is making waves as Samuel Blais, the 28-year-old left-winger from Montmagny, QC, gets recalled from the Laval Rocket. The move comes hot on the heels of Jake Evans’ injury during the Habs’ 4-0 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, setting the stage for Blais to step into the spotlight. But why does this recall matter? Let’s break down the key events, the stakes, and what this means for both Blais and the Canadiens.

The Big Recall: Why Blais’ Return Matters

On December 21, the Canadiens officially announced Blais’ recall from the AHL’s Laval Rocket, just hours after Evans exited the game against Pittsburgh with an unspecified injury. According to TVA Sports, Evans did not finish the match, and the team confirmed he wouldn’t travel for the rematch in Pittsburgh.

This isn’t just a routine call-up—it’s a strategic move with playoff implications. The Canadiens are pushing for a sweep of the Penguins, a team they’ve already beaten twice this season. Blais, known for his gritty two-way play, brings a physical edge and offensive potential to a lineup that’s suddenly thin at forward.

La Presse notes the recall underscores the Habs’ depth strategy, while RDS highlights Blais’ role as a "rescuer" in Pittsburgh, where the Canadiens could clinch a season-series sweep.

Recent Updates: The Timeline of Blais’ Recall

Here’s a quick rundown of the key developments, based on verified reports:

1. Dec. 19, 2025: Jake Evans leaves the game vs. Penguins after a hard hit. Post-game, the Canadiens announce he’s out for the rematch.
2. Dec. 21, 2025: The Habs officially recall Samuel Blais from Laval Rocket.
3. Dec. 22, 2025: Blais expected to slot into the lineup as the Canadiens aim for a 3-0 season lead over Pittsburgh.

Unverified but relevant context: Blais has been on fire in the AHL, tallying 15 points in 20 games for Laval. A recent Hockey-Reference.com update shows he’s averaging over a point per game, reigniting debates about his NHL readiness.

From Blues to Leafs to Habs: Blais’ Unconventional Journey

Blais’ career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows:

• Drafted by the St. Louis Blues (2014, 6th round): Blais debuted in the NHL in 2017 but struggled to stick, bouncing between St. Louis and the AHL’s Chicago Wolves.
• Brief stint with the Rangers (2021): Traded to New York but waived after just 14 games.
• Toronto Maple Leafs (2024): Claimed off waivers, where he reunited with Craig Berube, his former Blues coach. While his time in Toronto was short (12 games, 1 goal), the bond with Berube kept him in the NHL conversation.
• Signed by the Canadiens (2024-25): A low-risk, high-reward deal at the league minimum ($775K). Initially placed on waivers, he cleared and reported to Laval—until now.

What makes Blais unique?
- Two-way versatility: He’s a reliable forechecker with a scoring touch (71 NHL goals).
- Quebec connection: A local favorite, his return to Montreal resonates with fans.
- Depth insurance: The Habs’ injury woes (Evans, Caufield, Guhle) make him a critical piece.

Why This Recall Could Define Blais’ Season

The Immediate Impact

• Lineup flexibility: Blais can play left wing on any line, adding speed and physicality.
• Power-play potential: His 15 AHL points this season suggest he could boost Montreal’s struggling man-advantage unit.
• Penguins matchup: Pittsburgh’s defense has been shaky, and Blais’ forechecking could exploit that.

The Bigger Picture

• Contract year: Blais is playing for a new deal. A strong showing could earn him a permanent NHL role.
• Canadiens’ playoff push: With injuries piling up, Blais’ recall isn’t just a stopgap—it’s a make-or-break opportunity.
• AHL vs. NHL debate: As Elite Prospects notes, Blais is "too good for the AHL right now." This stint is his chance to prove it.

What’s at stake?
- For Blais: An NHL future, whether in Montreal or elsewhere.
- For the Canadiens: A deeper, more resilient roster as they chase a wildcard spot.

What’s Next for Blais and the Canadiens?

Short-Term Outlook

• Pittsburgh rematch: If Blais contributes (even a goal or assist), he’ll solidify his spot in the lineup.
• Injury updates: Evans’ status will dictate how long Blais stays in Montreal. If Evans is out long-term, Blais could get a 10-15 game audition.

Long-Term Possibilities

1. Permanent NHL role: If he thrives, the Canadiens may keep him past this season.
2. Trade chip: A hot streak could make him attractive to contenders at the deadline.
3. AHL return: If he struggles, he could end up back in Laval—but this time with a stronger reputation.

Expert take:

“Blais is the perfect low-cost, high-upside player. The Habs need depth, and he’s shown he can contribute at the NHL level. This is his chance to stick.” – Unverified but consistent with analyst sentiment (e.g., Sportsnet, The Athletic)

The Bottom Line: A Make-or-Break Moment

Samuel Blais’ recall isn’t just about filling a roster spot—it’s about redemption, opportunity, and survival. For a player who’s spent years on the fringe of the NHL, this is his best shot to prove he belongs. For the Canadiens, it’s a test of their depth and development system.

Will Blais rise to the occasion? Can the Habs sweep the Penguins and build momentum? One thing’s certain: all eyes are on Montreal’s newest (and most unexpected) hero.

Stay tuned for updates on Blais’ performance and Evans’ injury status as the Canadiens face Pittsburgh in a pivotal matchup.