The future of head coach Rod Brind'Amour is uncertain, and several key players, such as defenseman Brett Pesce, could become unrestricted free agents.
Pesce, who suffered a lower-body injury in the first round against the Islanders, might leave the team after nearly ten years of service. Negotiations with Carolina fell through last year, and it seems unlikely they will resume, according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet.
Additionally, forward Martin Nečas, a restricted free agent, might have his signing rights traded, which is good news for Kent Hughes and the Canadiens.