Analyst Proposes Veteran Free Agent as Potential Replacement for David Savard on Canadiens' Blue Line
Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
The departure of David Savard will leave a big hole on the Montreal Canadiens' blue line. Beyond his play on the ice, it's his veteran presence that will be the hardest to replace.
On that topic, former NHLer Philippe Boucher suggested a rather unusual name to temporarily fill the Quebecer's spot in the lineup.
That name is 32-year-old veteran John Klingberg.
The acquisition of John Klingberg by the Montreal Canadiens to replace David Savard: Philippe Boucher's idea
Here's what the former defenseman had to say on the subject during a recent appearance on the JiC show on TVA Sports:
"He's no longer the offensive defenseman he once was.
In Montreal, they're looking for players who could help ease the transition for young right-shot defensemen who aren't ready yet or might not be ready next year."
- Philippe Boucher
In Montreal, they're looking for players who could help ease the transition for young right-shot defensemen who aren't ready yet or might not be ready next year."
- Philippe Boucher
Even though he's no longer the offensive defenseman he once was, Boucher believes the veteran would be an excellent choice to mentor the Canadiens' young defensemen.
And what about Logan Mailloux in all this?
While Boucher finds the idea of replacing Savard with Klingberg appealing, he also agrees that Logan Mailloux currently deserves a chance.
The club's prospect is playing very well in the AHL playoffs with the Rocket and could end up surprising next season.
"I love him," he said.
"The problem I have is: where do you put him?
I like Xhekaj and I want him as the sixth defenseman in Montreal.
Do you bring Mailloux in as the fifth defenseman with him?
Or do you believe Mailloux can play in the top 4?"
- Philippe Boucher
"The problem I have is: where do you put him?
I like Xhekaj and I want him as the sixth defenseman in Montreal.
Do you bring Mailloux in as the fifth defenseman with him?
Or do you believe Mailloux can play in the top 4?"
- Philippe Boucher
That is, if the current Laval Rocket defenseman isn't traded during the offseason.
Many people believe he could be the ideal trade bait for Kent Hughes to acquire a top forward on the market.
We don't yet know the organization's exact plans following Savard's departure, but one thing is certain - the weeks leading up to July 1st will be fascinating to watch!
Previously on HabsFanatics
| POLL | ||
MAI 25 | 2799 ANSWERS Analyst Proposes Veteran Free Agent as Potential Replacement for David Savard on Canadiens' Blue Line Would you like to see John Klingberg with the Montreal Canadiens for two seasons at $2.5 million per year? | ||
| Yes | 1495 | 53.4 % |
| No | 1304 | 46.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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