This summer, the Montreal Canadiens’ second-line center issue may be resolved on its own, and Nico Hischier’s name can no longer be ignored.
Nothing has been settled, but reports from New Jersey indicate that the Devils and their captain are working on an extension.
With the NHL Draft scheduled for June 26th, time is running out for all uncontracted players in the league. Unresolved circumstances may quickly become trade negotiations.
About this scenario, there are several things to consider. Thinking about the match with Montreal is nearly unjust.
Just ended a season with 101 points for Nick Suzuki. He’s a legitimate first-line centre that pushes the offence. But every strong top line needs a second pivot below it that can hold the room together, and right now, there is no obvious answer for that spot on this roster.
In his first season, Ivan Demidov demonstrated genuine skill on the wing by scoring 62 points. The concern is which center unleashes his full potential at five-on-five.
In seven playoff games, Oliver Kapanen was held scoreless, which reveals everything about the constraints of that second-line configuration throughout the postseason.
What Demidov needs alongside him is Hischier’s two-way approach.
Evans is a bottom-six center, but he excelled in the playoffs, scoring 10 points in 19 games. Asking him to hold down another line for an extended period of time is like asking a good supporting actor to carry the entire film.
Completely different sport for Hischier. He can be used in any scenario, wins the puck back, and drives offense.
The Devils ended the season ranked 21st overall with a goal differential of -24. A franchise that is going nowhere fast is exactly the sort that may one day opt to sell its franchise. The timing of the rebuild does not align with the centre’s window.
Montreal ended up with 106 points and a sixth place overall record of 48-24-10. Kent Hughes has the assets and the standing to make a real push if Hischier becomes available.
Any agreement would almost certainly need a sign-and-trade arrangement because Hischier is entering the last year of his deal. As part of the package, Montreal would have to commit to a long-term extension, probably costing more than $9.5 million every season.
Noah Dobson’s cap hit is already $9.5 million. This team’s financial situation is drastically altered by adding another nine-figure obligation at center, and Hughes must discuss it.
The cost of the potential alone would be prohibitive. With playoff experience, Hischier is a top-age two-way center. Nobody exchanges it for pennies and picks.
What happens in Jersey over the next two weeks will determine whether the agreement ever comes to fruition. Montreal’s Martin St-Louis has established a solid foundation, and the second-line center spot is the most glaring void right now separating this squad from becoming a true Cup contender.
The Devils could endure. Their extension could be completed. However, if they don’t, Hischier will be the most sought-after center on the summer market. Additionally, the Canadiens should be prepared to act quickly.
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