Montreal Canadiens' Offseason: Analyzing Key Player Acquisitions, Trades, and Overall Impact on the Team's Future Success.
The Montreal Canadiens entered the 2025 offseason with heightened expectations following a surprising playoff appearance. General Manager Kent Hughes faced the task of building upon the team's foundation while maintaining long-term flexibility. Several key moves have been made, and here's a grading of the Canadiens' offseason so far.
Trades
- Noah Dobson Acquisition: The Canadiens made a significant splash by acquiring defenseman Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders in exchange for their two 2025 first-round picks (16th and 17th overall) and forward Emil Heineman. Dobson, 25, was promptly signed to an eight-year, $9.5 million per season contract. This move addresses a clear need for a right-handed, top-pairing defenseman with size, mobility, and offensive skill. Dobson is entering his prime and provides instant credibility to Montreal's defense. The acquisition gives the Canadiens one of the most exciting young blue lines in the NHL, with Dobson joining Lane Hutson, Kaiden Guhle, and David Reinbacher. Grade: A-
- Zachary Bolduc Trade: The Canadiens traded Logan Mailloux to the St. Louis Blues for forward Zachary Bolduc. This trade focuses on organizational fit and positional need. Bolduc, 22, had 36 points (19 goals, 17 assists) in 72 games this past season. Canadiens GM Kent Hughes highlighted Bolduc's potential, skating ability, physicality, and offensive capabilities. Bolduc himself expressed excitement about joining the Canadiens, as he grew up a fan of the team. Grade: B+
- Draft Pick Trade with Carolina: During the 2025 NHL Draft, the Canadiens traded the 41st and 49th overall picks to the Carolina Hurricanes for the 34th and 189th overall picks. With the 34th overall pick, Montreal selected Russian forward Alexander Zharovsky. Grade: B
Free Agent Signings
- Alex Belzile: The Canadiens signed forward Alex Belzile to a one-year, two-way contract. Belzile returns to the Canadiens organization after playing for the Laval Rocket from 2018 to 2023, where he also served as captain from 2021 to 2023. In 44 NHL games with the Canadiens, he has recorded six goals and nine assists. This past season, he tallied 56 points in 66 AHL games with the New York Rangers' affiliate. Belzile brings veteran leadership and depth to the organization. Grade: C+
- Nate Clurman: Montreal signed defenseman Nate Clurman to a one-year, two-way contract. Clurman, 27, was drafted by the Colorado Avalanche in 2016. He recorded 11 points in 31 AHL games with the Pittsburgh Penguins' affiliate this season. Clurman adds depth to the Canadiens' defensive pool. Grade: C
- Sean Farrell: The Canadiens signed forward Sean Farrell to a one-year, two-way contract. Farrell had 44 points in 67 games with the Laval Rocket in 2024-25. Grade: C+
- Marc Del Gaizo: The Canadiens signed defenseman Marc Del Gaizo to a one-year, two-way contract. Del Gaizo produced nine points in 46 appearances with the Nashville Predators this season. Grade: C+
- Kaapo Kahkonen: The Canadiens signed goalie Kaapo Kahkonen to a one-year contract. Grade: C+
Overall Offseason Grade: B+
The Canadiens addressed a major need by acquiring Noah Dobson, solidifying their defense for the long term. The trade for Zachary Bolduc adds potential and addresses organizational fit. The free agent signings provide depth and veteran presence. Kent Hughes has positioned the Canadiens to continue their development and compete for a playoff spot in the upcoming season.
