
(David Kirouac/USA TODAY SPORTS)
Nick Suzuki is set to have a stellar season that will see him join the exclusive 100-point club. While this may seem like a bold prediction, several factors point to Suzuki hitting this milestone. The 25-year-old captain of the Montreal Canadiens has shown flashes of elite talent, and this season, everything is aligning for him to reach that next level.
Increased Chemistry with Cole Caufield
Suzuki’s partnership with Cole Caufield is one of the most exciting duos in the NHL. Despite Montreals woes last season, Suzuki still managed to put up career high with 33 goals and 77 points in 82 games, while Caufield put up career highs with 28 goals and 65 points in 82 games.
With Caufield and Suzuki ready to pick up where they left off, the chemistry between these two young stars will only grow stronger. Caufield’s goal-scoring prowess complements Suzuki’s playmaking abilities, setting the stage for Suzuki to rack up assists and boost his point total significantly.
Emerging Offensive Depth
Montreal has quietly been building an intriguing forward group that will provide Suzuki with more offensive support than before. The continued development of Juraj Slafkovsky, means Suzuki will have another talented winger along with Caufield. With the secondary scoring options falling onto the likes of Alex Newhook, Mike Matheson and a fully healthy Kirby Dach.
This depth will prevent opponents from focusing solely on shutting down Suzuki’s line, giving him more space to operate and create scoring chances. With less defensive pressure, Suzuki will have the freedom to be more creative and take more risks, leading to higher point production.
Increased Power Play Opportunities
The Canadiens power play has been a sore spot in recent seasons, but Suzuki is in a prime position to turn that around. With Caufield’s lethal shot, Slafkovsky’s puck retrieval, and the shared play of Mike Matheson and Lane Hutson as power-play quarterbacks, the Habs man advantage should see a marked improvement.
Suzuki stands to benefit immensely from a revitalized power play. Last season, he tallied 31 points on the power play. If the Canadiens can improve their conversion rate, it’s realistic to expect Suzuki’s power-play points to jump to 35 or more, pushing him closer to the 100-point mark.
A More Consistent Supporting Cast
Consistency has been an issue for the Canadiens, but with head coach Martin St. Louis entering his third full season behind the bench, there’s reason to believe that Montreal will be a more structured and disciplined team. St. Louis, a former NHL star who thrived despite being undersized, understands how to get the most out of players like Suzuki.
St. Louis has already had a positive impact on Suzuki’s game, and with another full offseason to prepare and build on last year’s foundation, the Canadiens top line is set to be one of the most consistent in the league. Suzuki’s ability to lead by example and his growing comfort in his role as captain will also contribute to his offensive consistency.
Suzuki’s Personal Growth and Confidence
Since being named captain, Suzuki has matured into a true leader both on and off the ice. He’s more confident, more poised, and more determined than ever to elevate his game and lead the Canadiens back to relevance. His dedication to improving his game has been evident in his offseason training, where he’s focused on increasing his speed, strength, and shot accuracy.
Suzuki’s confidence in his abilities, combined with his understanding of the game, makes him a prime candidate for a 100-points season. He’s no longer a player with potential—he’s a player ready to harness it. His vision, hockey IQ, and playmaking skills are elite, and now, with a stronger supporting cast and the experience of leading a team, Suzuki is primed to explode offensively.
The Drive to Prove Himself
Let’s not forget the motivation factor. Suzuki has heard the doubters who question whether he can be an elite first-line center in the NHL. Also, the Canadiens have faced criticism for their rebuild, and Suzuki is at the helm of changing the narrative. He’s motivated to silence those critics and prove that he is not just a good player, but a great one able to lead a franchise out of the bottom of the league.
The fire to prove himself as one of the league’s top players will drive Suzuki to take his game to the next level. The best players in the NHL thrive under pressure, and Suzuki is cut from that cloth. His drive and determination will push him to new heights, and that means pushing his point totals into the stratosphere.
Final Thoughts
Nick Suzuki is on the cusp of stardom, and this season will be his coming out party. All the pieces are in place for him to reach the 100-point plateau—a feat that will not only solidify his status as one of the league’s elite centers but also another step for the Canadiens return to competitiveness.
Suzuki has the talent, the supporting cast, and the motivation to make it happen. Don’t be surprised when you see Nick Suzuki’s name among the NHL’s top scorers at the end of the season. He’s ready to take that next step, and 100 points is well within his reach.