Kent Hughes finally makes a move and signs a forward
July 1st is an important date in the hockey world, and Kent Hughes certainly didn't want to miss out.
While all eyes were on Steven Stamkos, including mine, as he ultimately signed with Nashville, Hughes made his move with a less high-profile signing that could pay off.
Indeed, the Canadiens have agreed to terms with forward Alex Barré-Boulet.
"Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes made his first July 1st signing by awarding a one-year contract to Quebec-born forward Alex Barré-Boulet.
The deal is worth $775,000." - TVA Sports
Barré-Boulet has excelled in the AHL but hasn't had much opportunity in the NHL, playing only 68 games so far.
It's a one-way contract, meaning he will be eligible for waivers but at full salary.
"Even if he doesn't earn a roster spot right away, Alex Barré-Boulet gives the Canadiens a player capable of being recalled and providing a solid level of performance. There aren't many mature candidates for call-ups in Laval.
The Rocket needed to improve its group of veterans." - Marc Antoine Godin
According to Godin, ABB will likely go through waivers to join the Rocket but stands as a strong candidate for recall.
"Yes, indeed, and I expect it to be waivers. ABB has cleared waivers several times already. I don't believe he's at a stage in his career where he would necessarily be claimed. In fact, the one-way contract can serve as a deterrent."
- Marc Antoine Godin
Indeed, being on a full AHL salary could dissuade other teams from claiming him.
This is a very good signing by Kent Hughes, and I'm eager to see how he will be utilized.
POLL |
Do you think Kent Hughes will make a big signing in the next few hours? |
Yes | 105 | 27.5 % |
No | 277 | 72.5 % |
List of polls |
|
10 hours ago | By Greg Wilson The Montreal Canadiens organization makes changes to the goalkeepers: Primeau in danger? |
|
11 hours ago | By Greg Wilson No more crutches for Patrik Laine |
|
12 hours ago | By Greg Wilson Elliotte Friedman confirms three NHL waiver announcements: Matthew Highmore is available for the Habs |
|
14 hours ago | By Greg Wilson Joshua Roy's absence from an event: his agent reacts |
|
16 hours ago | By Greg Wilson Marc-André Fleury makes everyone laugh again with his McLovin costume |
|
19 hours ago | By Greg Wilson Regrettable gesture and concern for Joshua Roy |
|
20 hours ago | By Greg Wilson Rumor: Maude from the reality TV show Occupation Double is reportedly dating an NHL player |
|
21 hours ago | By Greg Wilson Kent Hughes will visit Ivan Demidov in Russia to see him in action |