7. Ryan Getzlaf
This is sort of a two for one deal. With the Canadiens needing a veteran centre as Eric Staal and Phillip Danault walk out the door, they turn to Ryan Getzlaf. This would fit in a variety of ways and would also mean his old pal and running mate from the Anaheim Ducks days, Corey Perry would also be returning.
Getzlaf has the size, experience, leadership capabilities and won the Stanley Cup in 2007 with the Ducks. He could also work as a bit of a cushion for the young centres in the lineup. I wouldn’t pencil Getzlaf into the lineup any higher than third line centre, but if Kotkaniemi goes through a dry spell, Getzlaf could play a more offensive role for a handful of games as the younger centre tries to find his confidence.
Ideally, Getzlaf would step in where Staal was last season and be a fourth line centre that wins face-offs, battles along the boards and grinds down the opposition. Putting him between big wingers like Joel Armia and Perry would give the Habs a fourth line that is a handful to play against every shift.
At 36, Getzlaf isn’t the offensive weapon he once was, but he is still an above average playmaker and has played 1101 NHL games. His 6’3″ and 228 pound body is also going to catch Bergevin’s attention today.