MONTREAL — Jeff Gorton`s media session wasn`t expected to unveil major secrets, and it didn`t disappoint in that regard.
With the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft less than 24 hours away, this wasn`t the time for revealing confidential information.
Nevertheless, Montreal Canadiens supporters can take comfort in one key point from Gorton`s 12-minute address on Thursday: He reiterated his dedication to the long-term strategy shared with general manager Kent Hughes aimed at building a consistent contender.
When questioned about the pressure to quickly capitalize on the team`s earlier-than-anticipated appearance in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the executive vice-president of hockey operations indicated he wasn`t feeling that pressure.
Gorton stated, “We will make decisions aligned with our goal: to build a team capable of competing consistently over a long duration. We won`t do anything that hinders this progress merely to slightly accelerate it. We will stick to the plan. The expectation is that we will keep improving and getting better, but we`ll see how things unfold.”
He added, “This is a significant weekend and a crucial summer for us, but we are committed to avoiding any foolish moves.”