The left side of Montreal’s defence corps has been an issue that Marc Bergevin created and several years later, he has yet to properly address it.

With the Canadiens being on the bubble for a playoff spot once again, they’re at a crossroads and it’s time for Marc Bergevin to consider the long-term picture.

While some may want the Habs to go after another free agent, the smarter play for the long-term success of the team is to leave it as it is and continue to emphasize prospect development for next season.

Last week, GM Marc Bergevin stated that Jordie Benn was going to assess his options on the open market. Even if he circles back to the Canadiens in the hopes of sticking around, it’s time for them to move on from the veteran.

The past two summers have yielded vastly different results for Marc Bergevin. What will the outcome be this time around?

The Habs have surprised quite a few people this season with their strong play so far. Here are five key reasons for their resurgence in 2018-19.

The Canadiens added some centre depth, acquiring Nate Thompson in exchange from the Kings for Calgary’s fourth round pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. The Canadiens also received Arizona’s fifth round pick from the Kings in the deal.

Tomas Plekanec will never be a member of the pantheon of great Montreal Canadiens. But in an era where the Habs struggled offensively and searched relentlessly and in vain for a number one centre, Plekanec performed consistently and professionally.

Marc Bergevin’s 2018 offseason work was an improvement on his 2017 summer and it has already paid dividends for both now and the future.

After a decent rookie season in 2017-18, Charles Hudon could be primed for a breakout sophomore year and could be a sleeper pick in fantasy leagues.