Canadiens Yet to Begin Contract Talks with Forward Zachary Bolduc
Montreal, QC - Despite a promising start to the season, contract negotiations between the Montreal Canadiens and forward Zachary Bolduc have not yet begun, according to recent reports from Lavoie. This silence surrounding Bolduc’s future is drawing attention as he approaches restricted free agency at the end of the current season.
The lack of discussions comes as Bolduc’s role on the team has diminished in recent weeks. After initially being a key contributor, he has been relegated to a supporting role for the past 11 games, culminating in being the least-used forward in last Thursday’s game against the New Jersey Devils. This reduced playing time is impacting perceptions of his value and potentially influencing the urgency of contract talks.
“Nothing. No discussions. Complete silence,” Lavoie stated regarding the negotiations.
Bolduc shares a similar free agency status with forward kirby Dach, both qualifying as restricted free agents. While acknowledging Bolduc and prospect Hutson are not comparable players, the situation highlights the Canadiens’ favorable position in negotiations.
the team currently has little incentive to proactively engage in contract discussions given Bolduc’s current role. As Anthony Martineau of noted, “What exactly are we criticizing Zachary Bolduc for? A key piece at the start of the season when he was given… the opportunity to be one, he has been confined to a supporting and/or much less critically important role for 11 games now.”
Observers note Bolduc isn’t performing poorly, but his limited ice time restricts his ability to make a significant impact. The Canadiens retain control through his restricted free agent status, allowing them to reassess his value as his role and opportunities potentially evolve. The team appears content to wait and see if Bolduc can regain a more prominent position within the lineup.
