Montreal Canadiens: Chris Terry having another top-tier season in the AHL
By Omar L
Chris Terry has done some good things for the Montreal Canadiens organization as well as the AHL team goes with the Laval Rocket.
The Montreal Canadiens have had the pleasure of having Chris Terry as a key contributor to their AHL club for the past two season. Last season on the St. Johns Ice Caps, the 28-year-old put 30 goals and 38 assists in 58 games displaying true scoring ability. That tally had him at second in the AHL in points behind Kenny Agostino.
If you’ve tracked Terry’s career, that shouldn’t have come as a shock to you. The veteran has been a prolific point-getter in the AHL for the last nine years. Even dating back to his OHL days, Terry has always found a way to put the puck in the net. This season is no different.
He doesn’t overwhelm you with size or speed. But what he does bring to his style of play is an above average hockey IQ that allows him to read the play well and get into the right spots. Not to mention his shot which further adds to his ability as a goal-scorer.
Terry is currently leading the Laval Rocket with 28 goals and 37 assists for 65 points in 55 games. That total is also tied for first among AHL players with Phil Varone. It’s a similar story between this season and last. There’s a strong chance that Terry runs away with the scoring title in this final stretch of the year, but number one may have already been his had he stayed healthy.
Similarly to last season, Terry missed games in January and February but got back on track scoring two goals in his first game back against the Utica Comets. It’s completely individualistic thinking, but as a mainstay on the top line and power play unit, the Brampton native will have plenty of opportunities to lead the league in scoring.
It’s not only the things on the ice that make the AHL All-Star a player to emulate. Terry was recently awarded the IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year award for his contributions in Laval. Besides spending time with individuals at community centres with other teammates. Terry also has his own program referred to as the “Chris ALS All-star” providing a full game experience as well as a meet-and-greet for someone living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
This and more has made Terry a player in the Montreal Canadiens organization to stand behind. There will have to be some decisions made over the summer as he is a pending unrestricted free agent. Although the Laval Rocket, as well as the Habs, are moving towards youth, having veteran players around is ideal, especially one who can put up the numbers Terry can. Additionally, the organization has the means and space to keep him aboard even if he is looking for an increase from the $650,000 he currently makes.
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Even if the Laval Rocket are preparing for another playoff-less season, having a league-leading scorer on the roster may help soften the blow a little bit.