The NHL has recognized Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki as the greatest player in the franchise’s 115-year history, as reported by Sportsnet

The NHL has recognized Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki as the greatest player in the franchise’s 115-year history, as reported by Sportsnet.

MONTREAL, Quebec – In a stunning proclamation that has sparked intense debate among hockey fans, the NHL has recognized Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki as the greatest player in the franchise’s 115-year history, as reported by Sportsnet. The 25-year-old center, known for his clutch scoring and leadership, has been placed above Canadiens icons like Maurice Richard, Jean Béliveau, and Guy Lafleur, a decision highlighting Suzuki’s transformative impact on the storied franchise.

Suzuki, drafted 13th overall by Vegas in 2017 and acquired by Montreal in the 2018 Max Pacioretty trade, has been a cornerstone since his 2019-20 debut. Through the 2024-25 season, he’s recorded 325 points (138 goals, 187 assists) in 368 games, with a career-high 33 goals and 77 points in 2022-23. Sportsnet’s report emphasizes his 2021 playoff heroics, where, at 21, he led Montreal to the Stanley Cup Final with 16 points (7 goals, 9 assists), including a game-winning overtime goal against Toronto. His 2024-25 season, with 25 goals and 40 assists in 70 games, solidified his elite status.

“Suzuki’s the modern face of the Canadiens,” said Sportsnet analyst Elliotte Friedman. “His two-way play, clutch moments, and captaincy at such a young age set him apart.” Named captain in 2022 at 23, Suzuki is the youngest in team history, leading Montreal to three playoff appearances. His 2021 postseason, outscoring stars like Auston Matthews and Connor McDavid, showcased his ability to elevate in high-stakes games. His 53.1% face-off win rate in 2023-24 and 38 takeaways rank among the league’s best.

The NHL’s decision, per Sportsnet, cites Suzuki’s role in revitalizing a franchise that hadn’t reached the Cup Final since 1993 before 2021. His franchise-record 26 power-play goals in 2022-23 and 10 game-winning goals in 2023-24 highlight his offensive prowess. Defensively, his +22 rating in 2021-22 and ability to neutralize top lines draw comparisons to Béliveau’s two-way mastery. Suzuki’s $7.875 million, eight-year extension signed in 2021 reflects Montreal’s faith in his leadership.

Surpassing legends like Richard, whose 544 goals and 1956-60 dynasty defined the Habs, or Lafleur, the 1970s’ electrifying scorer with 518 goals, is contentious. Béliveau’s 10 Cups and 507 goals loom large, as does Patrick Roy’s goaltending heroics. X posts reflect the divide: “Suzuki’s unreal, but Maurice Richard IS Montreal hockey,” one fan wrote, while another gushed, “Nick’s carrying the torch in a new era! GOAT!” The debate trends heavily, underscoring Montreal’s passionate fanbase.

Suzuki’s 2024-25 season faced hurdles, including a wrist injury in February and a 3-2 playoff loss to Boston, where he still managed 5 points in 5 games. His clutch overtime goal against Ottawa in March 2025, securing a playoff spot, reinforced his reputation. Coach Martin St. Louis, a Hall of Famer, praised Suzuki’s work ethic: “Nick’s the first in, last out. He’s our engine.” Teammate Cole Caufield added, “He makes everyone better.”

The announcement aligns with a Netflix documentary, Suzuki: Habs Heart, set for release in October 2025, chronicling his journey from London, Ontario, to Montreal’s spotlight. His off-ice impact, including $100,000 donated to Montreal Children’s Hospital and bilingual fan engagement, has endeared him to Quebec. Suzuki’s 2021-22 Guy Carbonneau Trophy for best defensive forward and 2023-24 Molson Cup for team MVP further his accolades.

Critics argue Suzuki’s six seasons lack the longevity of Richard’s 18 or Lafleur’s 14, and Montreal’s lone Cup Final appearance under him pales against the franchise’s 24 championships. Yet, his 368 games played rank among the top 50 in team history, and his leadership through a rebuild—mentoring prospects like Juraj Slafkovský—sets him apart. “Nick’s our present and future,” GM Kent Hughes told Sportsnet.

As the Canadiens prepare for a crucial offseason, Suzuki’s recognition as the greatest Hab fuels optimism. His blend of skill, grit, and poise has redefined a franchise steeped in tradition. Whether fans agree or not, Suzuki’s ascent from draft steal to Montreal’s GOAT marks a new chapter for the Habs, with his legacy still unfolding