Tracking the Canadiens’ Freelance Writers – Hockey Writers – Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens didn’t lose many key pieces in free agency this summer, which shows how much of the team’s core is already under contract for years to come. However, a number of players who finished last season with the organization have moved on, while one notable name is still available on the open market. Some departures were expected, while others fell victim to the Canadiens’ growing depth chart. Here’s a look at where those players ended up, and what might be next for those still looking for a new opportunity.

Patrick Laine

The biggest name among Montreal free agents remains Patrik Laine. At the time of writing, the former second-round pick has yet to be signed despite having one of the most dangerous guns in hockey. Laine’s time in Montreal was not a success. Injuries also derailed his season, and consistency remained an issue, but there were still traces of a top scorer who surpassed the 40-goal mark in the NHL. Players with that kind of goal-scoring pedigree rarely stay unemployed forever.

The question is no longer whether Laine can score goals, everyone knows he can. The question is whether the team is willing to take a chance on him given his recent injury history and inconsistent production. As a result, the most likely outcome seems to be an annual “guarantee” contract that costs relatively little.

For a team looking to add offense without making a long-term commitment, Laine represents a very low-risk gamble. If he returns to form, he could be one of the best signings of the summer. If not, the team can simply move on after one season. Several teams looking for more scoring depth could make sense as potential spots before training camps begin.

Joe Veleno

Joe Veleno didn’t have to wait long before getting his next contract, signing a one-year deal worth $1.2 million with the New York Rangers. His role probably won’t change much from what Canadiens fans see in Montreal. Veleno projects as a fourth-line center who can transition to the wing when needed. His speed, penalty killing ability and responsible defensive game continue to make him an attractive depth option for NHL clubs.

The Rangers are looking to upgrade down their roster, and Veleno will have every opportunity to earn a regular roster spot during training camp. Nothing will be given to him, but that has been the case throughout his NHL career.

In Montreal, letting Veleno go makes a lot of sense. With youth pursuing NHL opportunities and several prospects ready to compete for depth roles, the Canadiens simply have other priorities. Veleno is now getting a fresh start with the Original Six franchise hoping to return next season.

Players Go Deeper And Find New Organizations

Although they weren’t headline names, Marc Del Gaizo and Samuel Blais also found new opportunities after leaving the Canadiens organization. Blais signed a two-way contract with the Ottawa Senators organization. The veteran forward brings energy, experience and versatility, making him the type of player every organization wants to have around. Whether he spends most of the year in Ottawa or with the Belleville Senators in the AHL, he will provide depth and reliable leadership while being available when injuries strike at the NHL level.

Del Gaizo also signed a two-way deal, joining the Rangers organization alongside Veleno. The defenseman gives New York additional organizational depth on the blue line and should play significant minutes in the AHL while remaining a season-long call-up option.

Neither signing is expected to significantly change an NHL roster, but these are exactly the types of moves organizations make every summer. Injuries are inevitable over the course of an 82-game season, and having experienced players who can step into the lineup without missing a beat is extremely important.

For the Canadiens, moving on from these deeper pieces also creates more opportunities for younger players within the organization. The Laval Rocket prospect will now have more ice time and a clearer path to earning NHL opportunities if he continues his development.

The Canadiens’ free agent movement this summer has been relatively modest, reflecting the stability that Kent Hughes has built throughout the organization. Veleno, Blais and Del Gaizo have all found new homes to compete for depth roles, while Laine remains a big name still looking for his next contract. Montreal, meanwhile, is moving forward with a smaller roster and more opportunities available for the next wave of prospects to prove themselves at the NHL level.