The Montreal Canadiens have strengthened their forward lineup by reacquiring Sammy Blais. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Canadiens claimed Blais off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs. Interestingly, the Canadiens previously lost Blais to the Maple Leafs on waivers just before the 2025-26 season, but now he is back on Montreal’s roster after they reclaimed his rights.
Blais signed a one-year contract worth $775,000 with the Canadiens in July as a free agent. During the 2024-25 season, he played 51 games with the Abbotsford Canucks in the AHL, tallying 14 goals, 26 assists, and 40 points. Before returning to Montreal, Blais appeared in eight games for the Maple Leafs, recording one goal, three points, four penalty minutes, and a -2 rating.
Fan Take: This move is significant for Canadiens fans as it brings back a familiar and capable player who can add depth and energy to the team’s forward group. For hockey enthusiasts, it highlights the unpredictable nature of waivers and roster moves, reinforcing the dynamic strategies teams use to build competitive lineups.
