Big statement from Michael Matheson about Kent Hughes: he's changed
Kent Hughes is doing a great job since he took over as general manager of the Canadiens, and most importantly, he has the respect of his players.
He handles the little things very well and listens to the players, whether they are desired or not. His handling of Jeff Petry's requests twice is a good example.
Indeed, the former Canadiens defenseman was traded to an American team at his request (Pittsburgh).
Against all odds, Petry was acquired again in the three-team deal with the Pens and the Sharks, and once again, Hughes found a taker in the United States, this time in his hometown of Detroit.
Whether we like it or not, this kind of small gesture speaks volumes throughout the NHL, and players know he's a good GM.
Nevertheless, Kent used to be a player agent before. His role is now completely opposite to what it has been all his career.
He has to negotiate down players' contracts and find arguments to pay them as little as possible to respect the salary cap, whereas before, he wanted to hit the jackpot for his players.
During an appearance on Guillaume Latendresse and Maxim Lapierre's podcast, Michael Matheson summed up the difference well. Hughes is not as close as he used to be; he has changed a lot.
It's completely normal, according to the defenseman. No player is close to their GM. Still, he has greatly changed his approach.
Nevertheless, it doesn't stop Kent Hughes from being highly respected, and it provided quite a funny TV moment.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Kent Hughes is doing enough to be one of the most respected GMs in the NHL? | ||
| Yes | 530 | 87.9 % |
| No | 73 | 12.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
