Transaction completed between the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche earlier this summer: André Tourigny praises the merits of Alex Newhook

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Elias Edmonson
September 7, 2023 (10:45)

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The biggest acquisition of Kent Hughes this summer, besides the selection of David Reinbacher at the fifth spot in the draft, is undoubtedly the addition of forward Alex Newhook. The 22-year-old faced some difficulties during his first two seasons in Colorado, but he certainly has very promising potential and could quickly become a front-line attacker in Martin St-Louis' lineup.

Acquired in exchange for the 31st (which became Mikhail Gulyayev) and 37th (which became Ethan Gauthier) overall picks in the 2023 draft, the opinions of experts vary greatly regarding this transaction.

Many believe it is a very risky bet that could greatly hurt the organization, which could have gotten their hands on two very talented prospects, while some are convinced that the Canadiens have added a top-6 forward who will be able to flourish, like Kirby Dach did last year.

In this regard, André Tourigny, who had the chance to work with the new CH addition during his time with Team Canada Junior in 2020-2021, is convinced that the Tricolore has acquired a quality forward. During his appearance on 98.5 FM, the head coach of the Coyotes highly praised the merits of Alex Newhook, also mentioning that the Canadiens have added an extraordinary person to their organization.

Firstly, he's a damn good guy. Newy is a good person. He is someone in excellent physical condition, who has quick hands and a devastating shot. He's a guy who went to a good school in Colorado, a team that works very hard and comes back strong. He is also coachable, a quality person and I think he will be successful. He is a guy with talent, who needs an opportunity, and I think he was a good player in Colorado and he will be even better with the Canadiens. - André Tourigny

Wow! Let's just say that it is very encouraging to hear such comments from his former coach. The Canadiens might possibly have acquired a forward with incredible talent who will complement Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Kirby Dach.

For sure, we are greatly looking forward to seeing him evolve with the Tricolore in a few weeks. His performances will be closely scrutinized by Montreal fans, who all hope that he can continue his progression to become a key element, starting this season.

Selected 16th in the 2019 draft, Alex Newhook spent the last three seasons with the Colorado Avalanche. The forward from Saint John's notably accumulated 27 goals and 39 assists (66 points) in 159 games since his debut in the NHL