It’s all Daniel Brier’s fault.
No, Luc Gelinas has not written a new book. It’s literally Daniel Briere’s fault that the Habs acquired Chris Kreider for next to nothing.
Let’s go back to July 3rd. Daniel Briere offered Leo Karlsson a five-year contract worth $18 million per year, a deal that Anaheim ultimately completed. The problem now is that there is no money left for Cutter Gauthier.
Result: Pat Verbeek had to get rid of Kreider, who remains a respected player.
Last year he scored 50 points. Montreal got him for $2.15 million for one season plus a ton of deferred bonuses.
Overall, Kreider is a good acquisition for the Habs and he will make an impact on two players in particular: Juraj Slafkowski and Zachary Bolduc.
In Slough’s case, the newcomer’s influence will be somewhat more positive. He won’t interfere with Slough’s ice time or, in any sense, take his place on the line.
Let’s not underestimate the impact of Chris Kreider’s arrival on Juraj Slafkowski.
Chris Kreider has long been one of the best power forwards in the NHL. Checking, playing in front of the net, effective body checks, puck protection, lateral shots… pic.twitter.com/WnylyJgF4R— Anthony Martineau (@Antho_Martineau) September 12, 2026
The Slovakian is still improving, and what better way to learn a few tricks than from one of the best in the business?
They probably won’t play on the same line, but I wouldn’t mind Slough learning from Kreider.
In Bolduc’s case, the impact is slightly less positive. Kreider will come in to steal a top-six spot from him – and maybe some ice time on the power play… Although I can see the two wingers playing together on the second unit of the power play.
Will Kreider’s arrival hurt negotiations with Bolduc? Ultimately, the Quebec native wanted to play a more offensive role and the arrival of the former Ranger would certainly hurt his cause a bit.
Quick thoughts
– Well, yes.
Signing #Kreider
Just payback for a colossal mistake made by another group of leaders 17 years ago! #Canadiens pic.twitter.com/svA6C6qYKU— Daniel Melancon (@DanMelancon) September 12, 2026
– One to watch.
Rick Dhaliwal: On Jake DeBrusk/Canucks: I heard this summer that he didn’t ask for a trade; there was so much trade talk around him; some teams felt that the contract period was too long – Donny and Dali (9/9)
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NHLRR: Last season there were rumors surrounding DeBrusk, and…— NHL Rumor Report (@NHLRumorReport) September 13, 2026
– Big victory.
The Jays bounce back and make up for yesterday’s mistake.
– RDS (@RDSca) September 12, 2026
– It’s a pity.
Another defeat that pushes FC Supra away from the playoffs
– RDS (@RDSca) September 13, 2026
– Interesting.
Take center ice at the Bell Center and capture this unique moment surrounded by your favorite players.
Join the Canadiens Golf Tournament Auction presented by @cibc → pic.twitter.com/uZBscMwpzv
— Canadiens Children’s Foundation (@CHCFondation) September 12, 2026