The Montreal Canadiens find themselves at a crossroads with goaltender Carey Price, a legendary figure in the franchise’s history. Just three years removed from their Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2021, the team is grappling with the financial implications of Price’s contract amid his ongoing health challenges.
Marc Dumont of Montreal Hockey Now recently proposed that the Canadiens explore trading Price, citing his contract’s significant cap hit and his uncertain playing future due to persistent knee issues. Despite Price’s stature as a franchise icon, his contract, which includes hefty signing bonuses, poses a challenge to Montreal’s salary cap management.
“With Price’s contract still in play, the Canadiens must navigate significant financial constraints,” Dumont noted. CapFriendly estimates the team will have nearly $20 million in cap space but highlights the need for flexibility in roster management, which Price’s contract currently limits.
Carey Price underwent knee surgery on Friday, and is expected to be ready for the start of the 2021-22 season.#GoHabsGo https://t.co/bbzjy09ShB
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) July 23, 2021
The option of placing Price on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) could provide some relief, allowing Montreal to exceed the salary cap ceiling. However, Dumont argues this isn’t an ideal scenario for the team’s long-term financial health, as it complicates their ability to maneuver throughout the season.
Given these challenges, Dumont suggests that the Canadiens’ best course of action might be exploring a trade to offload Price’s contract to a team seeking cap relief or facing challenges reaching the salary floor. However, any potential trade discussions are likely to stall until after July 1, when Price is due a significant signing bonus.
Price, a cornerstone of the Canadiens since his NHL debut in 2007, has amassed an impressive career record with 361 wins, 49 shutouts, and multiple accolades, including the Vezina and Hart Trophies. Despite his accomplishments, injuries have hampered his availability in recent seasons, raising questions about his future on the ice.
Carey Price's career achievements:
712 Games
— 361-261-79 Record (92p per season pace)
— 19,304 Saves (5th in cap era)
— .917 Save Percentage (11th all-time min. 300 games)
— 2.51 GAA
— 49 Shutouts
— 3rd goalie in Modern Era to win Hart (MVP)
— Lead league in Wins Twice
—… pic.twitter.com/lOP3GvWgVc— Big Head Hockey (@BigHeadHcky) August 19, 2023
As Montreal contemplates its next move, Price remains committed to supporting the team in any capacity, including potentially waiving his no-movement clause to facilitate a trade.
The Canadiens face a pivotal offseason decision that will not only shape their roster but also honor the legacy of one of their most storied players.
