Alex Belzile and Blake Wheeler leave for the Rangers

After retaining the services of Nicolas Beaudin and seeing Anthony Richard head for Boston, the Canadiens were now keeping an eye on Alex Belzile. The forward, who has been an important part of the Rocket over the past few years, was looking for a one-tier contract, and when he didn’t get it in Montreal, he went on the market.

And in the end, he found it… in part. He signed a two-year contract with the Rangers, but only the second year of the pact is unrestricted. So, this season, he’ll have a two-part deal.

Let’s remember once again that the notion of shutters doesn’t refer to the notion of a ballot, but rather to a more financial notion: while a one-shot contract means he’ll have the same salary regardless of whether he plays in the NHL or the AHL, a two-shot pact means he doesn’t have the same salary in both leagues.

For a guy who’s on the line between the two leagues, it’s understandable to want a one-piece contract.

Belzile is leaving the Canadiens organization, where he has been a mentor for several years. In particular, he has done so with Rafaël Harvey-Pinard, who is establishing himself as a key player in the CH’s future.

Belzile isn’t the only Rangers signing on the wing: the New York club has also acquired Blake Wheeler, whose contract was recently bought out in Winnipeg.

The contract is worth $800,000, but includes $300,000 in potential bonuses. And since he’ll receive $8.25 million from the Jets, he could afford to sign at a discount.

This has the potential to be a steal for the Rangers, who get a good player with experience at a low price. He’ll help out in a support role.

In short, two wing signings for the Rangers. Let’s see if it helps the club this season.

In brief

– Speaking of the Rangers.

– Frederik Andersen stays in Carolina.

– Details of Mackenzie Blackwood’s contract with San Jose.

– Tyson Jost remains in Buffalo.

– Depth in Tampa Bay.

**Keep an Eye 👁️ On**
I’m hearing @TBLightning are working towards deals with F Sheary and F Glendening. @espn @NHL @NHLNetwork @TSNHockey @DKSportsbook #HockeyTwitter

– Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) July 1, 2023