For several days, Marc Bergevin had been preparing this transaction in order to fill the future loss of Jesperi Kotkaniemi, who officially joined the Carolina Hurricanes around 5pm this Saturday. Christian Dvorak joins the Canadiens, acquired in return for a first round pick in 2021 (the best between the CH and the Canes) and a second round pick in 2024.) Note that if one of the two picks becomes a top-10 pick, the Coyotes will receive the lower pick.
Marc Bergevin finally pulled the rabbit out of his melon hat by announcing the acquisition of the excellent 25-year-old center. Because yes, he is excellent. He has few holes in his arsenal and he has hands that can work magic at the mouth of the net. Before landing a job with the Arizona Coyotes, he scored 121 points, including 52 goals, in 59 games with the London Knights. He responded in the playoffs with a phenomenal 35 points (14 goals) in 18 games in addition to winning the Memorial Cup from the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. That was during the 2015-16 campaign.
Marc Bergevin is a master and he handled this situation like the greats know how, even if some criticized him for his silence during the last seven days. Say he had a good reason not to "back" Kotkaniemi since his plan was already well laid out.
Some of the Coyotes players even praised Dvorak's qualities, including his face-off circle, his good attitude, his work ethic in front of the net and his defensive zone skills.
In short, Dvorak had a great season last year with the Yotes, resulting in 31 points, including 17 goals, in 56 games. He is under contract until 2025 with an annual salary of $4.450 million.
