On the last night of their 2021-22 season, it was one final outing before the focus turned in earnest towards the future of the Montreal Canadiens organization.
It was easy for fans to disconnect or even want losses. For the coaching staff and the players, they needed to stay in the present even when at times it would have been easier to check out as well.
By the end of the team’s 10-2 win over the Florida Panthers, it was a glimpse into the future, with a wink towards the past and it gave everyone a nice present.