Most NHL forwards post gaudy offensive numbers when they're playing for new contracts.

Coincidence?

I think not.

So far, though, the Montreal Canadiens’ Michael Ryder looks to be the exception to the rule.

Coming off back-to-back 30-goal seasons and having signed a one-year deal in the offseason, Ryder seemed primed for a 40-goal campaign.

That hasn't been how things have played out.

Through 14 games, Ryder has just two goals and four assists—and has earned himself the wrath of Montreal coach Guy Carbonneau.

Carbonneau is known for demoting struggling players to get them to work harder. Most recently, Ryder found himself riding the pine for all but three shifts of the final period in Montreal’s 3-2 loss to the Maple Leafs on Saturday.

Ryder did play a decent overall game on Monday night against the Buffalo Sabres, delivering four big hits. Still, despite having some scoring chances, he only registered a single shot on goal—and was again absent from the score sheet.

The general consensus is that Ryder is thinking too much, and simply needs to shoot more. Given his horrible plus/minus rating of -25, many critics feel he's too focused on the defensive side of the game.

Canadiens’ captain Saku Koivu has come to his winger’s aid, stating that everybody has slumps—and that they're noticed more when they occur at the beginning of a season.

In upcoming road games against the Bruins, Senators, and Maple Leafs, all eyes will be on Ryder’s performance. If his current struggles continue, expect to see a more permanent change on the Canadiens’ No. 1 line in the near future.