The Montreal Canadiens navigated a challenging 2000-01 season that was highlighted by a significant transition in ownership to George Gillett and the emergence of promising individual performances. Despite missing the playoffs, the team saw offensive leadership from Saku Koivu and Oleg Petrov, who both recorded 47 points, while Brian Savage led the club with 21 goals. A memorable moment for fans occurred on February 13, 2001, when the organization honored legendary goaltender Patrick Roy with a special pregame ceremony during his first visit back to Montreal since breaking the NHL's all-time wins record. Under new head coach Michel Therrien, the team showed resilience and discipline, notably allowing the fewest short-handed goals in the league.