Montreal Canadiens: One More Season For Tomas Plekanec

This could very well be the last year we see Tomas Plekanec in a Montreal Canadiens jersey as he enters the final year of his deal.

There’s been turnover over the past few seasons in terms of the players fans usually associate the Montreal Canadiens with. Last season P.K. Subban was dealt to the Nashville Predators for Shea Weber. The trade didn’t have the best reactions initially, but the feelings around it warmed up a bit after Weber got on the ice.

Additionally, the Canadiens lost their long-time defenceman Andrei Markov. Whether it was contract negotiations or for family reasons, either way Markov won’t be on the team next season. You can’t help but ask yourself who’s next?

Well, the answer might be right in front of us if you take a look at the Canadiens’ cap situation (no not the $8.5 million in cap space). Tomas Plekanec will be entering the final of his two-year $12 million extension.

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Long-Time Hab

Plekanec has been on the Montreal Canadiens for the past 13 seasons. He made his debut with the team full-time during the 2005-2006 season where he scored nine goals and 20 assists. His best offensive season with the Habs was in 2009-2010 when he put up 25 goals and 45 assists.

Overall, he’s been the center responsible for defence and shutting down other team’s lines.

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Unfortunately, Habs fans should expect two outcomes for Plekanec. Either he is moved at the deadline, or they keep him for the playoff run and he becomes a free agent. Whether Marc Bergevin decides to bring the veteran back will depend on what he asks for and the status of the younger prospects.

Bergevin showed with the Markov situation that he has no problem letting a fan-favourite walk if their price is too high. If Plekanec would be willing to make a less in the future, then another two-year deal wouldn’t be a problem.

The Canadiens have other players in the pipeline who could be the third-line center. Michael McCarron would be a good candidate. Additionally, if we’re playing happy fantasy, Joni Ikonen could possibly have an impressive camp and make the 2018-2019 roster.

It’ll be hard to see another long-time Canadiens player go. However, if freeing up an additional $6 million in cap space will be better long-term, then that would be the best option for Bergevin.

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What do you think will happen with Plekanec? Will they bring him back, or let him walk? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!