Montreal Canadiens Approach Critical Juncture with Zachary Bolduc's Contract Situation
The Montreal Canadiens are navigating one of the most significant strategic crossroads in recent memory, with young forward Zachary Bolduc at the center of their long-term planning. As Bolduc enters the final year of his entry-level contract, the organization must decide how to secure his future, a decision that will profoundly impact the team's direction for the next several seasons.
Zachary Bolduc's Current Contract Status and On-Ice Performance
Zachary Bolduc has one year remaining on his three-year entry-level contract, originally signed with the St. Louis Blues. His current cap hit stands at $863,334, with a base salary of $832,500 for the 2025-2026 season. By February 2026, Bolduc will have accumulated over 160 professional games, meaning any potential assignment to the AHL would require waivers, effectively cementing his place on the NHL roster.
This milestone underscores his growing importance within the team structure. Bolduc has consistently earned top-six forward assignments, frequently lining up alongside key players like Ivan Demidov and Kirby Dach. Throughout the 2025-26 season, he demonstrated his offensive capabilities by recording 10 goals and 23 points in 57 games. His versatility and scoring touch have significantly strengthened his case for an early contract extension, positioning him as a priority for general manager Kent Hughes and the Canadiens' management team.
Strategic Considerations for Kent Hughes Ahead of the 2026 Off-Season
As the off-season of 2026 approaches, with Bolduc set to become a restricted free agent, the Canadiens' front office faces a crucial choice between a long-term commitment and a shorter bridge deal. Internal projections suggest that a six-year extension could carry an average annual value of approximately $5.74 million, while a two-year bridge contract might cost around $3.2 million per season.
Montreal finds itself in a favorable financial position to make this decision. The expiring contracts of veteran players such as Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson will free up significant salary cap space in 2026 and 2027. This increased flexibility allows Hughes to negotiate Bolduc's new deal without compromising future roster moves or jeopardizing the team's ability to pursue other strategic transactions.
Whether Hughes opts to secure Bolduc with an early long-term extension or allows negotiations to extend into the off-season, one reality remains unequivocally clear: Zachary Bolduc has firmly established himself as a core component of the evolving Canadiens lineup. His next contract will not only reflect his current value but also signal the organization's commitment to building around its emerging talent. The timing and structure of this agreement will serve as a cornerstone for Montreal's roster policy and competitive aspirations in the coming years.
