Canadiens GM Hughes’ list Top Priorities for 2024 Offseason

Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes enters the 2024 offseason with a unique opportunity to make significant moves, unlike last year when the team had to navigate a quiet free agency period without any notable unrestricted free agents (UFAs) to re-sign. This time, Hughes has the flexibility to raise the stakes and meet heightened expectations for the upcoming 2024-25 season.

While the Canadiens have the option to engage in free agency, it’s not a certainty or necessity. For instance, they may need to trade defensemen rather than add to their roster, particularly considering the potential value of 30-year-old Mike Matheson, who offers a cost-effective cap hit of $4.875 million. In goal, the team could benefit from an upgrade, but the available options don’t necessarily match the level of current starter Samuel Montembeault.

The Canadiens’ forward corps, particularly on the second line, could benefit from an upgrade on the wing. Several intriguing options are available, including Tyler Toffoli, who was traded by Hughes in the past despite being a good fit for the team. However, the team’s ability to make room in their salary cap, which is expected to increase, will be a crucial factor in determining their offseason moves.

5. Consider trading a forward outside the top six, akin to the Christian Dvorak model

As the offseason approaches, Montreal Canadiens’ General Manager Kent Hughes faces a familiar challenge of reshaping the team’s roster to meet the demands of the upcoming season. Last year, Hughes orchestrated a trade involving Mike Hoffman, a move that proved beneficial as Hoffman struggled to find his place within the team. This scenario mirrors the current situation with Christian Dvorak, who has returned impressively from injury, potentially paving the way for another significant trade.

With a surplus of NHL-caliber forwards on the roster, the Canadiens find themselves in a position where tough decisions need to be made to optimize their lineup. While there are compelling cases for retaining certain forwards with contracts expiring in 2025, players like Jake Evans and Joel Armia present strong arguments for staying, unlike Dvorak, whose impact has been less consistent.

4. Deciding on Jesse Ylonen’s Future

Jesse Ylonen, whose contract is expiring soon, poses a unique dilemma for the Canadiens. As a restricted free agent (RFA), the team holds the cards regarding his future. Ylonen’s performance as a fourth-liner this season has been underwhelming, raising questions about his role moving forward. Despite his potential as a top-six forward, the Canadiens must weigh the decision to either utilize his offensive skills or consider him as a cap casualty.

3. Re-Signing Justin Barron

Defenseman Justin Barron, facing a similar situation as Ylonen did last summer, is set to become a key consideration for the Canadiens. Despite underwhelming performances, Barron’s potential as a former first-round pick makes re-signing him a priority, especially considering his position on the right side of the defense.

2. Drafting a Forward with the First-Round Pick

The Canadiens’ draft strategy, particularly with their first-round pick, will likely focus on addressing the team’s needs upfront. David Reinbacher, their fifth-overall pick from last year, exemplifies this approach, emphasizing the team’s commitment to bolstering their forward lines.

1. Prioritizing the Re-Signing of Arber Xhekaj

Amidst the offseason decisions, re-signing defenseman Arber Xhekaj emerges as a top priority for the Canadiens. Xhekaj’s remarkable journey from being undrafted to a core member of the team underscores his value and potential long-term impact. Despite challenges and competition on the left side of the defense, retaining Xhekaj is crucial for the team’s future success.

As the Canadiens navigate the offseason landscape, balancing roster adjustments, draft strategies, and re-signing priorities will be key to shaping a competitive team for the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates on the Canadiens’ offseason moves and roster developments.