Updated deadlines for the Montreal Canadiens to pay attention to
By Omar L
The Montreal Canadiens are going to be a point of interest as they have cap space -despite having players to resign – and means of creating more space. Marc Bergevin may be prompted to take on contracts for buyouts in exchange for assets. Think back to Joel Armia. The Habs’ ability to take on and buyout Steve Mason‘s deal made that trade happen, and now he’s a key name on the roster.
Where the NHL diverges from the NBA is with free agency. The NBA is opening up their market days after the draft while, according to McKenzie, free agency will open on November 1st, five months after the normal date.
That’s going to be another chaotic day for the NHL. There are going to be players who thought they would cash in heavily this summer who may have to take a seat back. At the same time, there may be teams who didn’t think they would be in on free agency, but may now be with the decreasing competition.
If this ends up being the entire timeline for the completion of the 2019-20 season, that will likely have the 2020-21 season begin in January with a probably shortened schedule.
The last time the Montreal Canadiens played a shortened schedule was the 2012-13 season, where the Habs finished 1st in the Atlantic Division. Max Pacioretty led the team in scoring with 15 goals and 39 points while P.K. Subban won the Norris Trophy on a newly signed bridge contract.
dark. Next. Should the Habs buyout Carey Price?
That seems to be the schedule, and hopefully, it sticks to that. It’s been hard not having an escape, but if things are what they seem, it’ll be another four weeks before things kick-off for real this time.