The Montreal Canadiens’ game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday night will undoubtedly have significant repercussions. Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton likely paid close attention, as it was a crucial early-season game that will influence the Canadiens’ future moves.
Eric Engels from Sportsnet suggests that this match may have served as a critical wake-up call for Canadiens management, particularly regarding one important issue: the status of David Savard. While it was generally anticipated that Savard would be traded by the deadline due to his expiring contract, the game could have altered that trajectory.
“David Savard holds more value for the Canadiens than he does on the market. We were reminded of that on Thursday night when he was absent.” Indeed, the seasoned defenseman was scratched at the last minute, and his lack of presence appeared to adversely affect the Canadiens’ defense.
What’s your take? Should Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton reconsider moving David Savard before the deadline following Thursday’s disappointing performance?
His contribution on the ice, especially in defensive situations, during penalty kills, and in the locker room, is undeniably significant.
It has become increasingly clear that trading him could be detrimental to the team.
David Savard, 34, has registered 5 points in 27 games this season, along with 20 penalty minutes and a -5 rating. He has a salary of $3.5 million per year through the end of this season and will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 unless circumstances change.
Various reports indicate that the Canadiens could potentially receive a late first-round draft pick for his services.
