Kent Hughes may have finally found his second-line centre in Montreal

The result: a line that is producing and keeping the Habs in the playoff picture. On Wednesday, the Montreal Canadiens arrive at the Bell Centre with 52 points and a record of 23-13-6, sitting third in the Atlantic.

Kapanen isn't just "in the lineup": he's in the conversation. After 42 games this season, he has 13 goals, 9 assists, and 22 points, with a +2 differential. He is averaging 14:41 of ice time per game, and his shooting percentage sits at 17.6%, which really stands out for a rookie center.

The contract also helps explain why the organization can breathe a little easier. Kapanen is signed for three seasons with an annual salary of $925,000, which is a bargain if you keep him in an important role.

When your second line costs you so little at the center position, you can make moves elsewhere without shooting yourself in the foot.

The contrast is striking with his two current wingers. Demidov, 20, already has 36 points, including 10 goals and 26 assists.

Slafkovsky, 21, is at 32 points with 15 goals and 17 assists, and is now in the first year of his big contract worth $7.6M per season.

All of this brings back the real question, the one that has been following Kent Hughes for months: does the Habs really need to pay the price for another second-line center if Kapanen holds the fort?

If this continues, the debate is going to become genuinely uncomfortable for those who wanted an external solution.

Story to follow!

Also read on All Montreal Hockey :
Martin St-Louis reveals his lineup against the Flames as Kaiden Guhle's status is confirmed