The Canadiens would like to get their hands on Philippe Maillet

So far today, Kent Hughes has been relatively quiet on the free-agent market. His only signing of the day was to retain the services of Nicolas Beaudin, who was originally a restricted free agent.

That said, he did make his presence felt on the trade market, when he traded Joel Edmundson to the Capitals for a third-round pick and a seventh-round pick.

Now, even if he hasn’t been very active so far (which was expected, we must remind you), the fact remains that he’s potentially working on a few files.

And according to Anthony Marcotte, there’s one guy who’s on the Habs’ radar right now: Quebec forward Philippe Maillet.

We’re talking about a guy who spent the last two seasons in the KHL.

Maillet is a 30-year-old center (he’ll be 31 in November) who is primarily a depth player. He has spent time in both the Kings and Capitals organizations. In fact, he has played two games in his Bettman career, both with the Capitals in 2020-21.

Now, while he may not be an NHL guy, we’re talking about a guy who has been dominant in the AHL and KHL. Last year, for example, he scored 22 goals and 53 points in 66 games with Magnitogorsk Metallurg.

All in all, he still has a fine professional career ahead of him.

For a team that has just seen Anthony Richard and Alex Belzile jump ship, there are places to fill on the Laval side. Clearly, a guy like Maillet has the potential to be part of the solution, especially if he wants to get closer to home.

So it’s something to keep an eye on, and even if there’s no deal today, it could evolve over the next few days. It would be an interesting gamble for the Tricolore to fill a jersey in Laval and help the club’s young prospects play with the Rocket, if you ask me.

In gusto

– We suspected it, but now it’s done.

– Canucks break out the checkbook for Ian Cole.

– The Sabres are paying top dollar for a good defenseman.

– Nice catch in Tampa Bay.

– Riley Nash to Rangers. The contract structure is the reverse of Alex Belzile’s contract.

– The Stars keep one of their own.

Hanz is back! 🔥

We have signed Joel Hanley to a two-year contract through the 2024-25 season.

– Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) July 1, 2023

– Alex Lyon with the Red Wings.