The Montreal Canadiens re-signed their major potential free agent Kyle Wellwood to a 4-year extension that could see the star center close out his career in Montreal. The 37 year old has not yet seen regression as he has entered his mid 30's, instead notching a career-best 61 assists this past season.. though he did see a noticeable drop in goal output. Regardless, the free agency acquisition 7 seasons ago at a 5.85 AAV definitely earned a jump to the 8.5 million salary he will receive going forward.
"We've long had one of the best lines in the league thanks to having Kyle around playing with Bergsfors. There's no appetite to change that, and despite the calls that will surely come from some sections of our large fanbase, don't ever look for us to cash out,"said GM Walsh, indicating the desire for both to retire as Habs.
The duo have played major parts in developing on-and-off linemates Michael Dal Colle and Anton Zlobin, and the same is happening with last year's acquisition Brock McGinn.
The Habs continue to slowly usher in younger pieces as they try to simultaneously remain a top team in the East and develop for the future. With many, many young assets being traded over the last decade to earn them their three cups and perennial contender status, the Habs have only been graduating one player from their farm system every year. This season, it looks like 20-year old Scott Perunovich will be getting a very hard look out of training camp, as the GM looks to fill the hole left by retiring Denis Ezhov. Despite the raise in the salary cap, Montreal had modified contracts that saw that eaten up, and had raises due to other restricted free agents that basically mean the club will likely be quiet once again in major free agency.
4/8/2021 - 352 words
