Additional unexpected congestion for the Habs: Kent Hughes moves

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David St-Jean
May 3, 2024 (10:19)

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The Montreal Canadiens already had a solid congestion on the left side of their blue line, and it just got even tighter. Kent Hughes has signed another left-handed defenseman, Adam Engstrom.

Indeed, the young Swede is coming to North America with serious intentions. He's highly regarded, and he could make a big impression at the Canadiens' next training camp.

Here's an excerpt from the official announcement by Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes:

"BROSSARD � Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes announced on Friday that the team has agreed to terms on a three-year, entry-level contract with defenseman Adam Engström (2024-25 to 2026-27).

Engström, 20, scored four goals and added 18 assists in 51 games with Rögle BK (Ängelholm) in the Swedish Hockey League this season. The Habs prospect ranked second among defensemen on his team with 22 points.

The 6-foot-2, 193 lb rearguard also recorded four assists in 15 playoff games, helping his team earn the SHL SM Silver Medal.

Engström also represented Sweden at the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he registered one goal and two assists in seven games.

The Järna, SWE native was selected by the Canadiens in the third round (92nd overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft."

- Montreal Canadiens

Kent Hughes is well aware that he'll need to trade one or more left-handed defensemen in the coming years. Not only is there significant congestion, but the contract limit is also approaching rapidly.

So don't be surprised if this signing signals the departure of players like Jordan Harris, Justin Barron, or Johnathan Kovacevic, among others.