Habs GM Kent Hughes could be interested by two hometown goons according to journalist David Calabretta
The preparatory phases have been particularly complex for the Montreal Canadiens, who have seen some players receive major penalties. Leading the way, Arber Xhekaj seems to be the only one capable of defending his teammates when the time comes.
It's clear that the solid guy he is cannot bear the sole responsibility of protecting his teammates. Xhekaj needs to stay on the ice to continue developing as a defenseman as well.
It would make sense for General Manager Kent Hughes to consider adding an enforcer to the lineup to relieve Xhekaj. Even though this strategy belongs to another era, it must be said that it would be useful for the Canadiens not to rely solely on Arber Xhekaj to play that card. Toughness isn't just about punches; it can also be about body checks and having a presence that instills fear. Think of Ryan Reaves!
Mathieu Olivier: An Interesting Acquisition for the Montreal Canadiens and Kent Hughes?
Quebec native Mathieu Olivier, forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is an interesting option. At 27 years old, he is in the final year of his contract, earning $2.2 million. Last season in the NHL, he played 58 games and dropped the gloves eight times, while also playing a key role on the fourth offensive line and even on the penalty kill.
His physical style and experience make him an interesting candidate for Kent Hughes.
Nicolas Deslauriers' Name Also Mentioned
Former Montreal Canadiens forward, Quebecer Nicolas Deslauriers, could make a return to the city. A fan favorite during his previous stint in Montreal, Deslauriers is now a member of the Philadelphia Flyers. The team will likely give many young players more ice time as they enter a rebuilding phase. His contract in Philadelphia could make his acquisition more challenging for the Montreal Canadiens' General Manager.
With only a few hours left before the ceremonial puck drop marking the start of this new campaign for the Bleu-Blanc-Rouge, the final adjustments are likely to continue until the end of the week.
If the decision were up to you... What would you do in Kent Hughes' place to have a tougher, more physical team?
Source: The Fourth Period
Canadiens should try to add bottom-6 enforcer
| POLL | ||
Which goons did you prefered to plan with the sherif Arber Xhekaj this season? | ||
| Mathieu Olivier | 29 | 49.2 % |
| Nicolas Deslauriers | 20 | 33.9 % |
| Ryan Reaves | 4 | 6.8 % |
| Matt Remp | 6 | 10.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
