MONTREAL — As anticipated, Jeff Gorton`s media session didn`t offer much in the way of groundbreaking revelations, similar to a séance that yields little new information. Therefore, there was no disappointment when it proved unrevealing.

With the first round of the 2025 NHL Draft just over 24 hours away, it`s hardly the moment to disclose confidential team strategies.

Nevertheless, a key takeaway from Gorton`s 12-minute availability on Thursday should offer reassurance to Montreal Canadiens supporters: his reaffirmed dedication to the long-term vision shared with general manager Kent Hughes aimed at building a team that consistently competes for the championship.

When questioned about any pressure to capitalize immediately on the team`s unexpectedly early playoff appearance in 2025, the executive vice-president of hockey operations indicated that he did not feel such pressure.

Gorton stated, “We will make decisions aligned with our stated objective: constructing a team capable of competing annually for an extended period. We are not going to do anything that hinders that progress merely to gain a slight advantage. We will stick to the plan. The expectation is that we will continue to develop and improve, but the future will reveal the outcome.”

He added, “This is a significant weekend and a crucial summer for us, but we absolutely won`t make any foolish moves.”