Kent Hughes has been very active this season. He surprised many by signing New York Islanders defender Noah Dobson, which was his most significant move, while also acquiring Zach Borduk. However, he still hasn’t managed to fill a crucial need for the Montreal Canadiens: a reliable second-line center.
The free agency market was limited, especially after Jonathan Toews signed with the Winnipeg Jets, Matt Duchene re-signed with Dallas, and Michael Grabner joined the Anaheim Ducks. As Jeff Gorton mentioned before the draft, the Canadiens keep a close eye on league developments and evaluate player fits when opportunities arise.
The Canadiens managed to send a 19-year-old prospect to the AHL. The new CBA offers players a chance to hit major career milestones. Additionally, the team made a clever acquisition with a new forward.
On Friday, agent Shumi Babaev revealed he had discussions with the Canadiens, as his client, a pivot player, hoped to join Montreal. This player previously played with SKA St. Petersburg and former teammate Ivan Demidov in the KHL. However, the Canadiens informed Babaev there was no available spot for him, especially alongside Tricholo.
Though highly motivated for an NHL return, this Russian pivot hasn’t played in the league since the 2023-24 season, during which he scored 24 points in 63 games split between the Washington Capitals and the Carolina Hurricanes. He faced personal challenges and participated in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
He signed with the Hurricanes but eventually inked a four-year deal with SKA in the KHL, which was mutually terminated after the first season. While details are scarce, the Canadiens may have done their homework by leveraging Nick Boblov’s connections in Russia. The Habs maintain good communication with SKA, so it’s likely they sought insider information.
Though Kuznetsov might have complemented Demidov well, there’s no doubt why the Canadiens told the agent there was no roster space, despite their lack of depth at center.
Kirby Dach is being groomed to take another step forward on the second line. The Canadiens seem eager for young talents Owen Beck and Oliver Kapanen to shine, both under 24 and in the final year of their contracts.
(Photo credit: Wendell Cruz-Immagn Image)
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Fan Take: This story highlights the Canadiens’ strategic approach to roster building amid limited free agency options and challenges in securing key players. For hockey fans, it signals a focus on youth development and cautious vetting of potential talent, which could shape the team’s competitiveness in the coming seasons.
