As the Montreal Canadiens continue their rebuild and look to add more stability to their roster, one glaring need stands out: a second-line centre. With Kirby Dach’s status uncertain, leaving questions about his long-term role in the top six, the Canadiens will be looking to bolster their depth down the middle. A reliable, experienced centre could provide the team with much-needed stability, offensive production, and a boost to their overall lineup. During the 2025 offseason, the Canadiens will have the opportunity to target a free-agent centre who could make an immediate impact. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best available options who could fit the bill and help fill the void for Montreal.
5 – A Proven Veteran to Anchor Montreal’s Second Line
If the Canadiens are looking for a more established, reliable presence down the middle, Brock Nelson could be a prime target this offseason. The 33-year-old centre has been a steady force for the New York Islanders for over a decade, and his combination of size, skill, and experience could provide exactly what the Canadiens need on their second line. Now with the Colorado Avalanche after being traded a week ago a week ago, Nelson is likely to test free agency this summer. Unlike a younger, unproven player, Nelson offers more immediate impact. He’s a player teams can rely on for 25 goals and 60 points, and with his ability to play both on the power play and in key defensive situations, he’d provide versatility and leadership to a still-growing Montreal roster.
Even though Nelson could be a solid second-line option, there are two reasons why this deal seems unlikely. First and foremost, Nelson might be looking for a big pay day. At 33 years old, it might be the veteran’s last big contract in the NHL and he could look for some term and money. I would not bet on Montreal giving him a four or five-year deal at around $6 or $7 million per year. Finally, there are doubts that the American native would come to Montreal.
4 – A Dynamic Playmaker to Elevate Montreal’s Second Line
If the Canadiens are looking to add a game-changing presence to their second line, Matt Duchene could be the perfect fit. He has the ability to play both first- and second-line minutes, and his offensive game is still effective, even though he’s in his 30s now. Duchene has been on a point per game rhythm this season, recording 66 points in 64 games for the Dallas Stars.
That said, the chances of this actually happening seem low. Duchene has signed a one-year, $3 million deal last offseason to stay in Dallas despite a 65-point season. The offensive talent is undeniable, and it is fair to assume Duchene likes it in Dallas. If available, he could be an interesting option on Montreal’s second line.
3 – Betting on Potential
One intriguing name that could be a fit for the Canadiens is Cody Glass, the 25-year-old centre currently with the New Jersey Devils. After being selected sixth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft by the Vegas Golden Knights, Glass has faced some bumps in the road, but he’s shown steady development in recent seasons. As a high draft pick, he has the potential to be a key contributor, and this offseason could be a pivotal moment in his career.
Don’t get me wrong, Glass is not a better player than Dach. The Winnipeg native could be an intriguing option on the third line. Montreal has had some interest in Glass in the past and have a history of taking a shot with some unproven young players. Alex Newhook and Dach were both projects from general manager Kent Hughes. Glass should come at a very cheap price if he goes in free agency this summer, meaning if the gamble does not pan out, Glass could simply be a depth option for Montreal in 2025.
2 – A Reliable Veteran
The most realistic option for the Habs could be Mikael Granlund. The Finnish forward offers strong two-way play and versatility, able to contribute both at centre and on the wing. At 33 years old, Granlund is still a decent offensive contributor that could come in as a solid middle-six forward. His ability to play in multiple situations and his high hockey IQ would add depth to the forward group while still aligning with the team’s overall development goals.
One of the intriguing aspects of Granlund’s situation is the possibility of him choosing to play for a non-contending team like the Canadiens. While many veteran players seek out contenders in their later years to chase a Stanley Cup, there are several factors that could make a move to Montreal both appealing and logical for Granlund, especially if the Canadiens were able to secure him on a three-year deal.
1- A Stanley Cup Champion
The idea of Sam Bennett joining the Canadiens has been gaining some traction, particularly as the team looks to add depth, grit, and some more experience to their lineup. Bennett, known for his physicality, two-way play, and ability to contribute offensively, could provide exactly the kind of boost Montreal needs in their ongoing rebuild.
Winning the Stanley Cup is an experience few players in the NHL have had, and Bennett’s journey to the ultimate prize last season could be incredibly valuable for a team like Montreal, which is still in the process of developing its young core. Bennett played a crucial role in Florida’s success during their run to the Cup in 2024, and his experience in those high-pressure situations would be something that could benefit the Canadiens tremendously.
The only question with Bennett is the financial aspect of a potential deal. At 28 years old, the fourth-overall pick in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft could look at a last long-term deal at a sizeable price. We could be talking about a seven-year deal in free agency at about seven or probably even more than $8 million dollars.
As the Canadiens continue to rebuild and develop their young core, finding the right second-line centre or winger will be pivotal for their future success. While there are viable options in free agency, the Canadiens might be better off looking at the trade market to find a more suitable, impactful fit.
