As already mentioned upthread, more segments does not always equal more miles. You should be looking at routings rather than simply trying to force 4 segment trips. Trying to force 4 segments is often going to force an overnight layover somewhere which means added expense unless you are willing to sleep in an airport. And then there's the inconvenience factor.
Most of the flight to go Asia, will departure early morning (from Montreal).
I agree the maximum is not the best solution, but because I departure from the "far" north east and with Delta, most of the travel go in "west" direction, and in most case, most of them give me additional miles.
The 3 major routes take me from Montreal (YUL), to: Atlanta, JFK and Detroit.
The best first flight is to Atlanta (993m) more south.
What I find on Delta website (can be select), is YUL-ATL-DTW-PVG or PVG-LAX-JFK-YUL. I did not find other "routes", how is good for miles and low cost and can be select on Delta websites.
I am news with Delta, is why I ask some advise here.