Mike Matheson Makes Clear Request to Kent Hughes About His Future With Canadiens
At the Montreal Canadiens' golf tournament, Mike Matheson surprised some by sending a clear message about his future, hinting that he wants to continue his journey with the team - but that it will depend on upcoming discussions with Kent Hughes and company.
Veteran Mike Matheson made it very clear that he wants to stay in Montreal as long as possible. He also stated that he is now leaving this matter in his agent's hands.
This statement immediately sparked discussions about his future role and the type of contract he could receive.
Mike Matheson Ready to Stay, but at What Price for the Montreal Canadiens and Kent Hughes?
As reported by Marc-Olivier Beaudoin, Matheson's future will largely depend on his salary demands.
"Mike Matheson says he wants to stay in Montreal as long as possible, and he's leaving it to his agent."
According to Beaudoin, if the defenseman is open to a hometown discount to extend his stay in Montreal, he could become a luxury asset on a third pairing, for example, capable of stepping into the top four in case of injuries.
It's clear that his performances last season sometimes left much to be desired.
Many observers are convinced that he wasn't in the right role on the first defensive pair - especially surrounded by so many young talents like Hutson and Guhle.
Nonetheless, he still remains an excellent fourth defenseman and could stabilize the defensive corps over the long term.
Beaudoin even added that if the Quebecer accepts a deal of around 4 years at roughly $4.5 million per season, he would sign him without hesitation.
As for me, I think Matheson can still be useful to the Canadiens, but with his decline over the past two years, if the trend continues, a hometown discount will be necessary.
| POLL |
SEPTEMBRE 15 | 1164 ANSWERS Mike Matheson Makes Clear Request to Kent Hughes About His Future With Canadiens What would be, in your opinion, the ideal annual salary for a contract extension for Mike Matheson? |
| Less than 4 million $ per season | 359 | 30.8 % |
| Between 4 and 4.9 million $ per season | 592 | 50.9 % |
| Between 5 and 5.9 million $ per season | 190 | 16.3 % |
| 6 million $ or more per season | 23 | 2 % |
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