Samuel Blais: four theories to explain his presence on the waivers

The Canadiens decided to place Samuel Blais on waivers this afternoon.

What you need to know is that the Canadiens didn't do this for fun. If Kent Hughes took the chance of losing Blais (again) to another team, it's because he needed to free up a spot in his 23-player roster.

But why? We have a few theories that come to mind—some of which are more… likely than others.

1. Maybethe Canadiens want to make room for Patrik Laine or another injured player on the club. That's probably the first thing that comes to mind right now.

If that's the case for Laine, it would mean he would remain with the organization during the Olympic break. After all, tomorrow's game in Winnipeg will take place after the deadline (tomorrow at 3 p.m.) for trades during the Olympic Games.

2. IfKent Hughes has opened up a spot, it's potentially because the club wants to test a young AHL player at the top level. But since the club has too many forwards in the NHL and the break is imminent, I don't believe that's the case.

It would still be exciting to see David Reinbacher make his NHL debut tomorrow, replacing Arber Xhekaj. But don't hold your breath—let's just say we don't believe it will happen.

3. The Canadiens may have wanted to play Samuel Blais down below during the break. The Québécois hasn't played since January 15, when the Habs played in Buffalo.

I don't think that was the main factor (in fact, it's probably more of a positive consequence of today's news) in the club's decision. But it's a theory that comes to mind.

4. Another reason why the habs may have opened up a spot is that the trade deadline is approaching. Will the habs pick up a player that they will eventually have to activate?

It's a possibility.

Remember that if Patrik Laine were to be traded, it's possible that the Canadiens (who would retain salary and give a sweetener to the other club that agreed to dance with them) would have to take a contract in return.

If that's the case, Kent Hughes is now equipped to achieve his goals.

Overtime

Actually, no: I have another theory. Maybe the habs want to make room to start rolling three goalies again for the rest of the regular season.

The newcomer? David Savard, of course.

Defenseman David Savard blocked shots for 14 years in the NHL.

Now meet David Savard, the goalie. #VoyonsDonc pic.twitter.com/LclcaQI9Yz

— DansLesCoulisses (@DLCoulisses) February 3, 2026