A new Information leaks in the Marchessault-Habs saga
The Nashville Predators made not just one big move earlier this week but three, with the additions of Brady Skjei, Steven Stamkos, and Jonathan Marchessault.
Several experts predict that the team could be a surprise contender in the 2024-2025 season!
Barry Trotz has ensured his team will compete for the top spot alongside powerhouses like the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, and Winnipeg Jets.
While fans are celebrating in Nashville, those of the Montreal Canadiens are disappointed that Quebec native Jonathan Marchessault chose the country music city over Montreal. He even hinted that the Canadiens made an offer, but when you read between the lines, it was shorter than Nashville's!
Jonathan Marchessault confirms Montreal Canadiens were his second choice
During his appearance on RDS, Marchessault admitted that the Canadiens were in the race, but Nashville's offer suited him better. The site Habsolumentfan had reported this in a previous article.
In the end, the length of the contract and the possibility of winning another Stanley Cup seemed more realistic in Nashville. He signed a five-year deal worth $5.5 million per season and also mentioned that the Predators organization was a better fit for him.
For his part, Kent Hughes did not hide his interest and reiterated that Jonathan Marchessault was indeed interested in joining the Canadiens but was not willing to go for a four- or five-year contract. This was likely a major reason why they couldn't reach an agreement. Hughes didn't want to commit to a heavy contract for four or five years, considering the time needed to sign emerging young players.
The 2023 Conn Smythe Trophy winner also mentioned that he was uncomfortable with the pressure of the Montreal market. He ridiculed the situation, saying that people would talk about him every time he didn't score for a few games. Indeed, dry spells feel long in Montreal! Just ask Scott Gomez!
Although Canadiens fans are disappointed, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton have not deviated from their rebuilding plan. Several experts have already mentioned that the Canadiens' management is targeting next summer to bring in a star player via the free agent market. The candidates will be enticing!
The 2025 class includes big names such as Leon Draisaitl, Mitch Marner, Mikko Rantanen, and even a certain Sidney Crosby. However, let's be honest, these players are likely to sign contract extensions with their respective teams unless a surprising situation occurs.
Credit: Habsolumentfan.com
Jonathan Marchessault affirms that the Canadiens were second place in negotiations
| POLL | ||
How much goals Jonathan Marchessault will score in 2024-2025? | ||
| Less than 29 | 127 | 48.3 % |
| 30-39 | 124 | 47.1 % |
| 40-49 | 11 | 4.2 % |
| 50 or more | 1 | 0.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
