The Montreal Canadiens have a chance to bring in a 2019 first-round pick, as the Calgary Flames have placed Him on waivers.
He, 23, was drafted 26th overall but has struggled to secure a regular spot in the Flames’ lineup, despite solid AHL performances. In his 37 NHL games across three seasons, he scored four goals and six assists, though his ice time was limited.
The Quebec City native has excelled in the AHL, posting 48 goals and 63 assists in 119 games for the Calgary Wranglers, with an impressive 0.93 points per game. His ability to play both center and wing adds versatility to his game, and his offensive potential remains untapped.
He seems like the type of reclamation project Canadiens GM Kent Hughes might take on, but there are some concerns about adding him to the roster.
One issue is his size—he’s a smaller forward at 5’9″ and 170 pounds. While smaller players can be undervalued in the NHL, there’s a limit to how many undersized players a team can effectively use before diminishing returns set in.
Another challenge is the Canadiens’ current roster. There are no clear openings for an outside player, and making room for Him could involve sending Oliver Kapanen back to Sweden or demoting Alex Barre-Boulet or Michael Pezzetta to the AHL—moves that may not be ideal given His uncertain potential and the need for consistent ice time to help him find his scoring touch.
Montreal Canadiens Brass Tacks
Some may be quick to highlight Paul Byron’s stats before the Canadiens gave him a real opportunity in the NHL, and while there’s some truth to the idea that Pelletier just needs more playing time, there are numerous cases of players excelling in the AHL but failing to secure a spot in the NHL. Additionally, I’d argue Pelletier likely wouldn’t make a significant impact, and the Canadiens already have a few prospects with a similar profile.
The same applies to Raphael Lavoie, who was placed on waivers by the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday. He’s an intriguing option, but considering Montreal’s current roster, I don’t see a scenario where claiming Lavoie would be logical.
Montreal Canadiens Waivers Priority
If the Canadiens choose to make a waiver claim, they hold the fifth-highest priority, with only the San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, and Columbus Blue Jackets ahead of them.
Additionally, it’s important to mention that the Canadiens could claim both players without affecting their waiver priority, as the current order remains unchanged until November 1. After that, the priority list will be adjusted according to the updated standings.
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