The NHL Draft and the opening of free agency are fast approaching, and the Canadiens are preparing accordingly.
Kent Hughes is evaluating his roster, and we can confirm the departure of a veteran forward, as reported by David Pagnotta.
Unsurprisingly, veteran Tanner Pearson will not be offered a contract extension and will become a free agent on July 1st. The Canadiens have already informed Pearson that they will not be extending him a contract offer.
Pearson was acquired from the Canucks in the trade that sent goaltender Casey DeSmith to Vancouver. The Canadiens clearly aimed to absorb the final year of his contract before releasing him.
Here's David Pagnotta's explanation on The Fourth Period website:
"Another player preparing to hit the free-agent market is veteran winger Tanner Pearson. He will not be signed by the Canadiens, and he will begin evaluating his options by July.
The former Stanley Cup champion will be a quality addition to a contender's third line." - David Pagnotta
