Amy Johnson

when we were all looking ahead at this year's Canadiens team, I think the expectations back then were pretty measured.

We talked a lot about progress, development, seeing parts of the young core take steps forward this year, but not necessarily expecting big numbers, headline-grabbing seasons, that type of thing.

But now here we are getting into the final stretch and definitely...

it feels a little unexpected.

Because now when you look around the roster, there's really some pretty significant milestones within reach.

We're going to talk about some of them here in a minute.

Suzuki is getting close to a big one.

Caulfield is getting close to a big one.

There's other young players who are really continuing to take meaningful steps in their development.

And okay, so maybe the team hasn't become an overnight Stanley Cup contender.

There are some real signs here, both in production and in overall growth, that suggests that something kind of important is starting to take shape with the Montreal Canadiens.

And as we mentioned, it also presents a really good opportunity to review what we thought the season was going to look like back in October and compare that to what it's actually become.

So I guess first, let's start, Rick, with as you look at where the team is right now and some of the milestones that are within reach.

Does it kind of feel like this is a season that's gone beyond expectations?

So let's start with, let's talk, before we...

go back and review our preseason predictions and see how they stack up.

Now that the season is almost over.

Let's first take a look at what some of these milestones are that are, that are pretty special.

That really gives some indications of where this team is, is heading next year.

And maybe even this year, we'll see.