The Montreal Canadiens have a few restricted free agent cases to settle on top of trying to shed salary. Rem Pitlick, Alexander Romanov, Samuel Montembeault, Kale Clague, Nate Schnarr, Joel Teasdale, Josh Brook, Corey Schueneman, Cayden Primeau and Michael Pezzetta all need new contracts.
In the case of Pezzetta, contract negotiations won’t be too complicated. He doesn’t care about money, he doesn’t care about term. All he wants is a one way contract that guarantees him a full season in the NHL.
Paul Capizzano, Pezzetta’s agent, told TVA Sports that negotiations are underway and that Pezzetta wants to stay in Montreal.
La durée du pacte n’est pas forcément un enjeu dans les négociations 👇 #GoHabsGo https://t.co/eQuoR4Zxlb
— TVA Sports (@TVASports) June 21, 2022
"“Pezz” loves playing in Montreal and wants to stay here. He’s extremely grateful towards the new administration that have given him so much confidence and the feeling seems to be mutual. (…) Martin St. Louis’ arrival as coach gave him the opportunity to blossom as a player and show what he’s capable of. – Paul Capizzano via TVA Sports"
Pezzetta quickly became a fan favorite with his gritty, never quit attitude and curly flow. The Toronto native played 51 games in his rookie campaign scoring 5 goals and 6 assists totalling 11 points and a whopping 81 penalty minutes. The 24 year old had spent the past 3 seasons with the Laval Rocket.
On the cusp of a rebuild, having someone like Pezzetta is exactly what the Canadiens need in their lineup. Someone who isn’t afraid to throw his body around and will give his all whether the team leads by five or trails by five. Given that Pezzetta also has certain liabilities which limits him to fourth line duties at best, the current climate the Canadiens find themselves in represents next to zero risks.
Furthermore, spark plug players like Pezzetta are always popular with fans and helps put on a good show. It’s one thing to lose throughout a rebuild, but the narrative will be similar to last season where the team will likely lose but by giving it their all regardless.
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