There are operations that are impossible to miss, like that of Sean Monahan. Kent Hughes smelled the blood, or more the smell of a team trying to free up paycheck, to acquire Monahan and a first-round conditional pick from the Calgary Flames for absolutely nothing.
• Read also: “I have no choice, I will have to score my first goal in Montreal” – Juraj Slafkovsky
• Read also: Kaiden Guhle: a leader at heart
• Read also: Canadian: a home win that is good for you
On August 18, Hughes took advantage of the confirmation of Carey Price’s long-term absence to compromise with the Flames. The Canadiens’ general manager did Brad Treliving a favor by agreeing to take on Monahan’s final season of contract at a cost of six million in salary.
On the same day, the Flames signed a $ 49 million seven-year contract with Nazem Kadri, who won the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche last June.
The CH then bet on Monahan without sacrificing a hope or an organization advantage. Your only responsibility is to sign your pay slip.
Return to Montreal
Undergoing hip surgery last May, Ontario is aiming to get his Montreal career back on track after three difficult seasons in Calgary where he scored 48, 28 and 23 points. He was a long way from his 82-point production in 2018-19 or his three 60-point campaigns (2014-15, 2015-16 and 2017-18).
After a small four-game champion, Monahan still can’t shout mission accomplished. But there are promising signs. In four games, he scored a goal, an assist and won 63.5% of his faceoffs.
“I’m fine, I haven’t had that luxury in the last few seasons,” Monahan said. There have been times when I have had a hard time skating because of my hips. For me, being healthy is an important factor. “
“I was also happy with the transaction, it was a good thing for me,” he continued. I have fun with the Canadian. “
St. Louis Trust
Monahan’s impact in this very young start to the season is also visible with its usage time.
The Flames’ former first round pick in 2013 is in second place among CH forwards with an average playing time of 18:43. I’m 20 seconds behind Cole Caufield.
Only Nick Suzuki (20:59) spends more time on the ice surface.
Used on the wing and in the center, to free Kirby Dach in the faceoff circle, Monahan has had both leading and penalty appearances since the start of the season.
If he keeps up, the 28-year-old striker could become an attractive coin for Hughes by market expiration. A player who cost nothing could therefore be worth a choice in the first round and another choice or hope for the Habs. The other option would be to offer him a contract extension at a more reasonable salary of six million.
