Photo credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
It certainly looks like another solid acquisition by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens is taking shape.
Kent Hughes has shaken up the Canadiens’ bottom six, and it’s already paying off. Without much noise, the Montreal Canadiens added Alexandre Texier, Samuel Blais, and Phillip Danault.
Together, that represents $7.275 million on the salary cap this season, with clearly defined roles to fill.
That said, let’s get back to Samuel Blais.
Another solid acquisition by Kent Hughes seems to be taking shape, following the recent performances of Samuel Blais
In Blais’ case, the story is quite unique-but also rewarding.
The 29-year-old forward signed a one-year, one-way contract, was then claimed on waivers, before returning to the organization. With the Laval Rocket, he recorded 9 points in 9 games, including 3 goals.
Since his recall, Blais has also produced quickly in Montreal. He registered 4 points in his first 5 games with the Canadiens this season, including 2 goals. At $775,000, that’s the kind of file that puts a smile on a general manager’s face.
“Samuel Blais, in 5 games since joining the Canadiens (team rank – 5-on-5):
– Goals: 2 (2nd – tied with Caufield and Demidov)
– Points: 3 (5th – tied with Caufield)
– Hits: 15 (2nd)
– Ice time: 39:39 (LAST ON THE TEAM)”
In the end, Texier, Blais, and Danault don’t need to be stars to make headlines. Their contracts, their numbers, and their timing already tell a story. And in Montreal, that matters.
These are three solid pickups by Kent Hughes, and quietly, he has completely rebuilt the Canadiens’ forward depth.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics