Photo credit: All Habs / Martin Chevalier TVA Sports
Phillip Danault and the Los Angeles Kings are going through a tougher stretch, as the former Canadiens center was recently benched.
And now several analysts are wondering if a return to Montreal could actually be realistic.
Since the start of the season, things haven’t been easy for Phillip Danault in California.
The Quebec native, always known for being so reliable at both ends of the ice, still hasn’t scored after eleven games, and his lack of offensive production is starting to raise concerns.
Given his past seasons, I have to admit I’m quite surprised to be reading this.
And on Tuesday night, against the San Jose Sharks, his coach Jim Hiller decided to keep him on the bench for most of the third period.
Phillip Danault benched by the Los Angeles Kings, according to TVA Sports
As reported by TVA Sports, Hiller confirmed that Danault was not injured at all. We can therefore conclude it was a disciplinary decision from the coach.
“It was a coach’s decision, nothing more,” summarized Hiller, who was clearly trying to send a message to his 32-year-old veteran.
On average, Danault has been playing nearly 17 minutes per game this season, recording three assists and a +3 differential.
However, his lack of goals and recent offensive struggles are starting to raise real questions about his long-term role with the team.
“What if the ideal solution was Phillip Danault?” he said, referring to his leadership and defensive reliability.
It would truly be great to see the former Hab return after all these years!
Danault, who earns $5.5 million per season through 2027, has a partial no-trade clause.
In my opinion, a Danault return could make sense – if the price is right. He’d bring a strong veteran presence to help guide the younger players.
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