Over the past four years, the Montreal Canadiens have brought in numerous players through the draft. However, due to a 50-contract cap, they face the challenge of retaining them all. This summer holds particular significance for the team as they strive to construct a competitive squad capable of contending for the Stanley Cup.
With the addition of more than 29 prospects to their Reserve List in the last three drafts, the Canadiens must confront some difficult choices. Complicating matters further, the team holds an additional 12 picks in each of the next two NHL Drafts, underscoring the importance of judiciously selecting players for entry-level contracts.
To recap, upon drafting a player, the team has an exclusive negotiation period of two to five years, varying based on the player’s origin. For CHL-based prospects, teams have a two-year window, up to four years for European-based prospects (up to age 22), and likewise for NCAA-based prospects (until their graduation summer).
Teams must decide on signing European and CHL-based prospects by June 1, while NCAA-based prospects face a deadline of August 15 upon graduation
This summer, the Canadiens face decisions regarding the futures of five players whose rights are nearing expiration. Considering the influx of new prospects and the abundance of draft picks, the club may opt to retain only a select few, allowing the others to re-enter the draft or explore free agency.
When a player’s rights are set to expire, it often means they have to decide whether to sign with the team that drafted them or pursue other opportunities, like free agency or playing in a different league. It can be a crucial moment in their career, shaping their path in professional hockey. The listed stars are ared Davidson, Cedrick Guindon, Petteri Nurmi, Miguël Tourigny, And Blake Biondi
Among these players, Jared Davidson stands out. Drafted from the WHL in 2022 at the age of 19, Davidson had the opportunity to play in the AHL this season under an AHL contract. Despite being drafted later than usual, he contributed significantly to the Thunderbirds’ WHL title win in 2023. Davidson’s stint with the Laval Rocket this season showcased his potential as a goal-scorer, despite limited playing time and a season-ending injury.
Turning 22 in July, Davidson only requires a two-year entry-level contract, offering the Canadiens flexibility in the long term. Given his promising performance and age, it’s likely that Davidson will be signed before the June 1 deadline.
