In this trade, Max Pacioretty was sent to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for Tomas Tatar, Nick Suzuki, and a 2019 second-round pick. Fans were ecstatic about this deal, given Max's declining popularity and the infectious support for Suzuki.
Suzuki's tenure with the Canadiens commenced in 2019 and has now spanned four seasons, with each season showcasing growth in his goal-scoring and overall point production.
Former general manager Marc Bergevin took notice of his progress and rewarded him with an 8-year contract extension worth $63 million. Suzuki carries a cap hit of $7.875 million per season and is currently in the second year of his new deal.
Despite these impressive numbers, especially when combined with the loss of Cole Caufield last year due to injury in January, it's expected that Suzuki will have a better season. However, there appears to be a shift in thinking regarding another Habs player who could potentially eclipse Suzuki as the number one center.
During The Sick Podcasts hosted by Tony Marinaro, David Ettedgui, an insider at BPM Sports, believes that Kirby Dach, the former Blackhawks star, maybe the Canadiens' top center.
Ettedgui further predicts,
It remains to be seen whether this prediction will come to fruition, and I believe that Suzuki currently holds the number one center position. Ultimately, the decision will rest with head coach Marty St. Louis, who will determine the best fit for the top role.
POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 16 | 86 ANSWERS Major Realization About Kirby Dach With The Canadiens Will Kirby Dach become the new number one centre of the Canadiens? | ||
Yes | 45 | 52.3 % |
No | 41 | 47.7 % |
List of polls |