Alex Newhook
Finding a possible second-liner for $2.9 million per year isn't easy. The Canadiens would prefer if Alex Newhook eventually slides into a third-line role, but his salary still offers tremendous value. The Canadiens will pay the $2.9 million annual salary for three more years, which the Canadiens hope will be a catalyst to them being contenders by the 2026-27 season.
Newhook struggled to stay healthy last season but had a career year with 34 points in just 55 games. Considering he had 30 points in 82 games with Colorado the season before, Newhook could be in for a breakout year if he can play all 82 again.