Signing Brad Marchand as a free agent: Maxim Lapierre’s idea

As you can see from the title of the TVA Sports article, Jean-Charles Lajoie also allowed himself to dream, imagining a line-up made up of Brad Marchand, Sidney Crosby and Ivan Demidov.

Lapierre, however, focused more on Marchand’s case, which is much more realistic.

Lapierre’s arguments are excellent. Brad Marchand is a high-energy player with a lot of playoff experience. If Montreal wants to get better, he’s the kind of player to add to the line-up.

The Canadiens need to add some toughness and Marchand is only 5’9, but he plays big. He doesn’t shy away from anything and, like a Brendan Gallagher, you know he won’t be afraid to get into the corners and play hard.

At 37, Marchand is also a good veteran who can support the Habs’ young players. With the departure of David Savard, the Habs will need to find another player with this kind of experience to set an example.

Lapierre’s only condition is to offer Marchand a short-term contract. The former Bruins captain isn’t crazy. He knows he’s 37 and should sign a two- or three-season deal.

Marchand’s last contract was worth $6.125 million on the payroll. He’s slowed down, but his contract was a real bargain.

Marchand finished the last campaign with 51 points in 71 games, which could earn him more than his old contract. It’s also worth noting that several teams will try to acquire him, which could raise the stakes.

It’s a great idea for the Canadiens, but the question is whether Kent Hughes is prepared to spend a lot of money on a very old player.

Overtime

– Kent Hughes and his gang prepare for the draft.

– Speaking of Marchand.

– Wow.