Habs Daily: Merci David Savard, The Next Step, Jacob Fowler

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, highlights, and stories you may have missed on Wednesday.

Montreal Canadiens News

There was a lot to discuss following Wednesday’s game, which is why we opted to keep David Savard’s retirement for the first thing in the morning. Of course, this was planned, and we’ve already written about the subject, but it’s always a little heart-wrenching to see a player’s career come to an end.

Savard can keep his head held high, as he didn’t just enjoy a very fruitful career, he also won a Stanley Cup, the ultimate goal of every hockey player. Many would be happy to simply feature in just one NHL game, while Savard played in over 900 if we include the playoffs.

Simply put, few reach Savard’s level of success, a testament to his hard work in a league that was quickly evolving.

It’s also worth noting he’s one of the most affable players in the league, and that’s not just the same cliché you hear about every NHL player.

Savard is a funny, loveable, and engaging mentor, which means he should have his pick of the litter if the Canadiens want to discuss a post-career job within the organization.

All the positives he brought to the table as a mentor in the locker room can still be used in a development role with the Habs. [David Savard Set To Retire After Playoffs]

Merci, papa Savy ❤️#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/WEggSZ1Vor

— x – Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) May 1, 2025

The Canadiens dropped their final game of the season, a 4-1 loss versus the Capitals, putting an end to their surprise playoff appearance. The scoreline was a little flattering toward the Capitals, as the Canadiens did manage to go out on their shields. [Canadiens Draft Pick Via Calgary Almost Set For 2025 NHL Draft]

A playoff loss is never easy to accept, but there’s no doubt the Montreal Canadiens are trending in the right direction. The future is very bright, and the fun isn’t over, as the Laval Rocket are currently playing in the AHL playoffs. There are also a few important dates to keep in mind this summer, including free agency. [The Next Step For The Montreal Canadiens, Important Dates]

Speaking of the Rocket, Jacob Fowler stopped 23 of the 25 shots sent his way to secure a 3-2 win over the Cleveland Monsters. Sean Farrell scored twice, while Owen Beck netted the game-winning goal. Brandon Gignac, who hadn’t played since late December, was the catalyst for the GWG. [Laval Rocket Have Sights Firmly Set On AHL Championship]

Beck de Gignac 🚨 https://t.co/UHd5ywUQfg pic.twitter.com/cjsv3WKok3

— xyz – Rocket de Laval (@RocketLaval) May 1, 2025

National Hockey Now Network

Another round of the Battle of Florida is done, and for the second straight postseason, the Panthers took down the rival Tampa Bay Lightning with the so-called ‘gentleman’s sweep.’ [Florida Panthers]

Raleigh, North Carolina was hostile as can be with the New Jersey Devils in town to play the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 5 of the first round Stanley Cup Playoff matchup. [New Jersey Devils]

Major trade deadline move or not, coach Todd McLellan is adamant that the Detroit Red Wings had – and still have – a team that should be in the NHL playoffs. And he’s equally certain who the Wings can blame for that not coming to fruition. [Detroit Red Wings]