Canadiens monitoring waivers as three players, including a goalie, become available

This morning, three names are circulating on NHL waivers, and it is generating plenty of discussion here.

The names being mentioned are goaltender Laurent Brossoit with the Chicago Blackhawks, defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok with the Dallas Stars, and forward Jonatan Berggren with the Detroit Red Wings.

In Berggren's case, the context is simple and intriguing for Montreal. He is 25 years old, was drafted 33rd overall in 2018 by Detroit, and already has a solid body of NHL games under his belt.

On June 30, Detroit granted him a one-year extension with an annual cap hit of $1.825M. His deal runs through the 2025-26 season, after which he will once again become a restricted free agent.

Last season, he recorded 24 points in 75 games, including 12 goals and 12 assists, and also registered 89 shots on goal. This season, he has six points in 15 games, which keeps his name on the radar.

What could attract the Montreal Canadiens is the idea of a low-cost opportunity without a trade. Montreal has already shown it does not hesitate to make waiver claims, notably with Samuel Blais on November 27.

Brossoit, meanwhile, is 32 years old and carries a $3.3M cap hit through the 2025-26 season. Kolyachonok is 24 years old, has a $775,000 cap hit, and his contract also expires after the 2025-26 season.

In short, if these names truly become available, there will be action on the waiver wire, and Montreal must at least keep its eyes open.

Jonatan Berggren with the Montreal Canadiens - would you take him?