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The Montreal Canadiens have plenty of exciting young players who are expected to play major roles in the team’s success over the coming years. However, while much of the attention has understandably been directed toward the younger core, veteran forward Josh Anderson is once again reminding everyone just how valuable he can be to this organization. With an impressive start to the 2026-27 season, Anderson is making a strong case for the Canadiens to seriously consider keeping him around beyond this year. Set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer, the 32-year-old forward is showing why Montreal might have a difficult time replacing what he brings to the lineup. Anderson Off to an Impressive Start Through the Canadiens’ first seven games of the season, Anderson has been one of the team’s most productive and consistent forwards. With four goals and six points, he currently ranks third on the team in scoring, trailing only Lane Hutson and captain Nick Suzuki. Even more impressively, Anderson’s four goals have him tied with Suzuki for the team lead. For a player who has never necessarily been known for his offensive consistency, this kind of production is certainly encouraging. His impact has also been reflected in his plus-minus rating. Anderson currently leads the Canadiens with a plus-4 rating, another positive indicator of his strong start to the campaign. Of course, nobody should expect Anderson to maintain this scoring pace throughout the entire season. However, his contributions go well beyond putting the puck in the back of the net. Anderson has been noticeable nearly every time he steps onto the ice. His speed, physicality, and willingness to attack opposing defenders have made him an important part of Montreal’s lineup. After seven games, it is difficult to argue that Anderson hasn’t been among the Canadiens’ most effective players. More importantly, he is demonstrating that he still has plenty left to offer despite entering the later stages of his career. Anderson Brings Something Unique to the Canadiens When evaluating Anderson’s importance to the Canadiens, looking strictly at his offensive production would be a mistake. The reality is that Anderson plays a brand of hockey that very few players on Montreal’s roster can replicate. At 6-foot-3, he combines size, speed, and physicality in a way that makes him particularly difficult for opposing defenders to handle. Whether he is driving toward the net, finishing a check, or pressuring opponents on the forecheck, Anderson consistently brings an element of intensity that the Canadiens need. His ability to establish a physical presence is especially valuable for a relatively young Montreal team that relies heavily on skill and speed. While players like Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Ivan Demidov, and Hutson provide tremendous offensive creativity, Anderson brings a different dimension to the lineup. That balance is essential for a team hoping to become a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. Anderson’s style of play can also become particularly valuable during the playoffs, when physical battles intensify and space becomes increasingly difficult to find. Losing Anderson would therefore mean losing much more than a veteran forward capable of contributing offensively. It would mean losing a significant part of the team’s identity, something that could prove difficult to replace. Canadiens Should Seriously Consider Extending Anderson With Anderson entering the final season of his seven-year, $38.5 million contract, the Canadiens will eventually have an important decision to make regarding his future.…