On Thursday, Zach Bolduc participated in the Revis celebrity golf tournament and took some time to speak with the media. Since his trade from Montreal Canadiens, the young player has been quite busy. The day after the trade, Bolduc visited the CN Sports Complex in Brosard and met with the Canadiens’ management team, including Kent Hughes, Jeff Gorton, and Martin St. Louis. Although they didn’t have in-depth discussions, the Canadiens’ leadership encouraged him to improve his showdown skills, as he may need to perform some draws.
Previously, Bolduc played center at around 16 or 17 years old with the Rimouski Oceanic in the QMJHL but did not continue in this role later with the Quebec Remparts. Nevertheless, he is embracing the idea and has taken the initiative to work on his showdown skills at Mark’s Office, planning to continue practicing there throughout the summer. He also expressed his willingness to play wherever the team needs him.
This development is noteworthy because the Canadiens are actively trying to strengthen their center position. However, both trade options and the free-agent market have been limited, leaving the team still searching for solutions. While Kirby Dach is considered a second-line center, an emergency backup plan is wise given past challenges. Alex Newhook also had time at center last season but showed limited output, suggesting he may not be ready for increased responsibility in that role.
Regarding his jersey number, Bolduc chose to keep No. 76 despite some chatter about the significance of numbers above retired ones. He had grown accustomed to wearing it since camp in St. Louis and decided to continue.
Though he dreamed of playing for the Canadiens since youth and enjoyed his time in St. Louis, meeting with Canadiens management made the trade feel real. He appreciates the opportunity to join a young, talented team and remains connected to the Canadiens from afar, even though he was initially drafted by St. Louis.
Simon Gagne, a former Flyer and Quebec Remparts assistant coach, also attended the tournament and praised Bolduc, believing the young players can score 30 goals per season for Montreal if deployed properly with top-six minutes and power play roles. Gagne acknowledged the crowded first power play unit but left room for Bolduc to prove himself.
Gagne reflected on his own experience being traded to Montreal at 22, sharing he was happy in St. Louis with good ice time but recognized being traded to Montreal meant joining a promising, young roster. He also emphasized Bolduc’s strong personality and willingness to engage with fans and media, noting that Bolduc’s game involves more than just scoring goals.
Bolduc himself is unfazed by the pressure of playing in Montreal, viewing it as a privilege to perform for passionate fans who deeply care about the team.
Photo credit: Brett Holmes-Immagn
—
Fan Take: This news is exciting for hockey fans because it highlights the Canadiens’ strategic efforts to develop and adapt their roster, especially at center, a vital position. Bolduc’s proactive approach and willingness to embrace new roles signal promising growth, setting the stage for a dynamic shift in the team’s future competitiveness and style of play.
