Montréal Canadiens right wing Zachary Bolduc (76) celebrates his goal with teammates during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres in game seven of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at KeyBank Center.

Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Zachary Bolduc‘s future is generating plenty of discussion, as Tony Marinaro believes the Montreal Canadiens will offer the forward a four-year contract.

It has sparked debate about the next deal for No. 76.

Marinaro did not hesitate.

“I think they are going to offer Zachary Bolduc a four-year contract,” he stated.

Despite a more difficult season, Bolduc remains a former first-round pick from 2021 who has shown some very promising things.

His most recent campaign did not fully meet expectations, but personally, I still have a lot of confidence in him.

The 23-year-old forward recorded 12 goals and 18 assists for 30 points in 78 games.

Bolduc was occasionally left out of the lineup, and his ice time fluctuated, especially toward the end of the season, but I will repeat that I truly see the potential.

Why is the length of this contract generating debate?

Because not everyone sees the situation the same way.

Jean-Charles Lajoie argues for a shorter deal for Zachary Bolduc with the Montreal Canadiens

Jean-Charles Lajoie offers a different perspective.

According to him, the Bolduc camp would be better off pursuing a shorter contract.

The reasoning is strategic.

A three-year extension would lead Bolduc to unrestricted free agency afterward.

Lajoie explained his logic.

“If he’s not convinced about the quality ice time he can get, then he needs to sign the shortest contract possible,” he stated.

The idea would be to keep his options open elsewhere.

It is clear that ice time will be at the center of discussions for the young forward.

It remains to be seen which path the Canadiens and the player will choose.

Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics

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