The Montreal Canadiens are skating into the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs with a swagger that hasn't been seen in years, and TSN analyst Craig Button believes this newfound belief transforms them from a hopeful participant into a legitimate threat. Currently sitting third in the Atlantic Division with 106 points, the Habs are locked in for a thrilling first-round showdown with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Button emphasized that the Canadiens' confidence stems from complete, balanced hockey. "It’s going to be a difficult matchup because the Montreal Canadiens are playing so well, and they’re not just playing well in one area of their game," he noted, pointing to vastly improved defensive structure and rock-solid goaltending as foundational elements. The return of a healthy Kaiden Guhle on the blue line has been a game-changer, stabilizing the defense and allowing the team to roll its lines with authority.

Offensively, the firepower is undeniable. Cole Caufield has eclipsed the 50-goal mark, captain Nick Suzuki has soared past 100 points, and young stars like Juraj Slafkovsky (73 points) and defenseman Lane Hutson (78 points) are providing elite secondary scoring. Hutson's playmaking has even drawn comparisons to franchise legend Larry Robinson.

Perhaps most importantly, the Canadiens' depth has reached a new level. A potent second line provides consistent support, and the potential return of key players like Kirby Dach from injury could make an already deep lineup even more formidable for the playoff grind. This depth was on full display in the season's final stretch, with statement road wins against contenders like Tampa Bay and the Carolina Hurricanes.

For Button, it's this combination of top-end talent, structural soundness, and unwavering self-belief that makes Montreal so dangerous. They aren't just hoping to compete; they are expecting to win. As the puck drops on the playoffs, the Canadiens carry the confidence of a team that knows it can skate with anyone.