Great Opportunity for the Canadiens with the Signing of a Hometown Forward: Anthony Mantha's Value Drops, but He Could Surprise

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David St-Jean
March 2, 2024 (6:14 PM)

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Kent Hughes has some work to do to improve the Canadiens for the next season as they won't make the playoffs again this year.

Almost a year ago, in the end-of-season assessment, the GM mentioned that failure would no longer be tolerated, and a year later, the team has the same losing record, marking a clear failure. Something needs to be done.

One player who could come to the Canadiens at a reasonable cost is Anthony Mantha. According to Martin Lemay, if the forward decides to play in the right way, he could be a significant asset.

"What was reproached to Anthony Mantha at the time, and Ken Holland told me in an interview, is that he will become the player he wants to be the day he decides to get involved! When he stops thinking that it's up to others to go get the puck in the corner.

Today, he is 29 years old. If Anthony Mantha plays in an engaged manner and finally meets the expectations people have for his great talent, I would take him in Montreal tomorrow morning!

Next year, he won't be fighting for a big contract. He'll be fighting for a contract, period! I would be very surprised if he signs a contract for more than 5 million dollars per season due to the results of recent years and the assessments of Holland and Steve Yzerman!"

Mantha has the talent to score 30 goals per season. He notably had seasons of 50 and 57 goals in the QMJHL. With the fact that he doesn't have a contract for the next season, he could be a bargain for Kent Hughes for one year and could also bring value at the next trade deadline.

Source: Habs et LNH