MONTREAL — With Montreal Canadiens training camp less than three weeks away, general manager Kent Hughes faces a ticking clock to re-sign restricted free agents Arber Xhekaj and Zachary Bolduc. Despite the ongoing contract negotiations, team captain Nick Suzuki expressed strong confidence on Thursday that both players will remain integral parts of the roster.
Meeting with the media ahead of the Heroes Golf Tournament benefiting the Asista Foundation, Suzuki emphasized the significance of both unsigned players to the organization’s vision on and off the ice.
Suzuki and Molson Stand Firm on RFA Negotiations
Both Suzuki and team leadership remain optimistic that deals will be finalized before players report for camp, even as the September 16 deadline approaches—the date when training camp is expected to open and the NHL’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) takes effect.
«Zach had a good year. He took steps throughout the season and into the playoffs. Obviously, Arber is a big and important piece for our locker room and on the ice. So, hopefully, both guys can get it done.» — Nick Suzuki, Canadiens Captain
Canadiens owner and president Geoff Molson echoed Suzuki’s calm demeanor when asked about the situation by RDS, stating he has «no doubt that it will get done» and isn’t worried about the delay.
Roster Numbers, Trade Rumors, and the September 16 CBA Deadline
Xhekaj, 25, recorded 1-3-4 totals in 65 regular-season games alongside a team-leading 116 penalty minutes, adding 28 penalty minutes in 13 playoff games. Meanwhile, the 23-year-old Bolduc established himself by posting 12-18-30 totals in 78 regular-season games and playing in all 19 postseason contests.
However, GM Kent Hughes’ patient approach stems from broader roster and salary cap considerations:
- Potential Trade Packages: Hughes remains interested in acquiring a top-six forward and an experienced right-shot defensemen. Both Xhekaj and Bolduc represent attractive trade assets for opposing teams in potential package deals.
- New CBA Changes: The upcoming CBA will cap contract lengths at seven years for current teams (down from eight) and cap signing bonuses at 60 percent, altering how sign-and-trade deals are structured.
- Lineup Competition: If Hughes successfully lands a top-tier right-shot defenseman, it could directly impact Xhekaj’s spot in the starting lineup, justifying the front office’s decision to weigh every option before committing cap space.
Despite fan impatience, Hughes previously made it clear he will not make a «dumb trade» just to appease the market short-term. With Xhekaj’s agent Brian Bartlett confirming positive communications with management, all signs point to a strategic waiting game as September 16 nears.