All In or All Out: Montreal Isn’t Playing It Safe This Summer

The Montreal Canadiens are not staying under the radar this off season. Coming off the momentum of an impressive season, the Habs have wasted no time making waves with a string of decisive moves that signal they’re ready to level up.

Here’s all the moves we’ve seen so far: 

Noah Dobson

The Habs have landed top-pairing right handed D-man Noah Dobson from the Islanders in a sign-and-trade on June 27th. Locking him in with an 8-year, $76M extension (that’s a $9.5M AAV). In return, Islanders received Emil Heineman plus both first-round picks in 2025 (16 & 17).

A right shot, offensively skilled defender that can anchor the top four and boost the power play? Yes please. Pair him up with Lane Hutson, and you’ve got a slick, mobile line in front of both Dobes and Montembault. 

Zachary Bolduc for Logan Mailloux

On July 1st, Montreal traded Mailloux to St. Louis, bringing 2021 first rounder Zachary Bolduc to MTL. Zach was 19-17-36 last season and offers real upside, especially on the power play. This swap adds speed, scoring potential, and fresh energy to the forward group.

Kaapo Kähkönen & Sammy Blais

Also on July 1, the Habs signed veteran G Kaapo Kähkönen and physical winger Sammy Blais to one-year deals. These are classic depth-and-grit signings, adding stability between the pipes and edge to the bottom six.

Joe Veleno

On July 16, Montreal added center Joe Veleno on a one-year deal. He brings versatility and depth down the middle, and could be a sneaky and effective plug-in option for the third, or even the second line depending on injuries and match-ups. This will also bring competition to the room as camp begins, and the guys secure their positions. 

What’s still brewing?

• Second Line Center still TBD

Right now, Kirby Dach remains the default option at 2C, but the team has yet to lock in a veteran solution. Dach is playing under a 4-year bridge deal set to expire at the end of 25-26 season. While there are arguments on the upside, injuries and inconsistency have left question marks. If Montreal wants to stay aggressive, don’t be surprised if the hunt for a veteran second-line center intensifies as we come closer to camp.

The Canadiens came into this summer with a clear message - the rebuild is over! With a retooled roster, a bolstered blue line, and eyes open on an even deeper push next season, Montreal isn’t just planning for the future, they’re making a play for the now. All in or all out? The Habs have made their choice.