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Montreal Canadiens: Rating Shea Weber’s Replacements

By Maria Bouabdo

Apr 23, 2021; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Montreal Canadiens starting lineup during the national anthem prior to the game against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 23, 2021; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Montreal Canadiens starting lineup during the national anthem prior to the game against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Chris Wideman, 8/10

As another part of the Shea Weber replacement plan, comes in Chris Wideman, KHL defenceman of the year with nine goals and 41 points in 59 games played in the regular season, and one goal and one assist in two playoff games.

Sep 29, 2018; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators defenseman Chris Wideman (6) skates with the puck in the first period against the Montreal Canadiens at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 29, 2018; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators defenseman Chris Wideman (6) skates with the puck in the first period against the Montreal Canadiens at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports /

He should be a huge help in creating offence from the blueline and creating plays for his teammates. I also expect his offensive prowess to allow him to take Weber’s spot on the powerplay, which is why I’m giving this signing a good rating as well.

Everyone knew that replacing Weber wouldn’t be easy, and wouldn’t be a one-man job, but the combination of Savard’s defensive play and Wideman’s offence should do the job. Though nothing will truly replace Weber, especially hid leadership and relationship with the team on and off the ice, these two players’ skills combined should be enough.

Wideman also refused a $2 million deal in the KHL and signed a one-year $750,000 contract with the Canadiens, so his goal will surely be to show everyone he belongs in the NHL, and for the league-minimum salary, who can really be upset about this signing?

Next. Perreault Signs One-Year Deal, Merrill to Minnesota. dark

With Savard playing in his home province and Wideman back in the NHL, there is also an emotional meaning for these players, and I expect both to be passionate about playing here.

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