Habs UFAs ranked

Team: 2022-23 Montreal Canadiens

Initial Creation Date: Apr. 14, 2023

Published: Apr. 14, 2023

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

Who stays and who goes?

Likely staying but not as a full time member of the Canadiens is Alex Belzile. The Laval Rocket captain scored his first NHL goal and will look to be the veteran leader of a very young AHL team next season as RHP and Ylonen battle for full time spots.

Sean Monahan starts off the maybes. Monahan showed flashes of being the player he was earlier in his career until the knee injury caused him to compensate which eventually caused his groin injury. If Hughes can get him cheap, I’d say sure but nothing over $3 million. Would be an interesting option IF, BIG IF, he can stay healthy to be flipped half retained at the deadline. I’d say Monahan’s options are limited.

Chris Tierney was picked up off waivers and filled a roster spot. He’s a depth forward so depending on who gets dealt and if we’re tanking again next year, he may get a league minimum contract. Otherwise, there are a number of prospects to take his place.

Perhaps the most disappointing player on this list is Jonathan Drouin. Bergevin tried making his team stay competitive and in the playoff picture but in the process gave up a top-4, fringe top-2 RD in Mikhaïl Sergachev. Drouin had a good first season in Montreal but never lived up to his 3rd overall potential. I really hope that he stays well, as he’s a really good person, but in terms of staying with the Canadiens, it’s not happening.

Paul Breakaway Byron may have been one of the greatest waiver pickups in NHL history, and was a thrilling player to watch—especially in the playoffs. His body is simply too broken down to continue playing and I really hope that he gets the physical therapy and relief he needs to enjoy his life after sport. I hope that the Habs honour him by adding him to their front office as a development coach/consultant. Wishing Ti-Paul all the best in his likely retirement.