However, the Canadiens face a challenging task moving forward, thanks to Price's contract extending through the 2025-26 NHL season with a hefty $10.5 million cap hit. Although currently on long-term injured reserve, the Canadiens might contemplate leveraging this contract as a tradable asset in the future. Yet, complications arise as Price holds a full no-movement clause, granting him control over potential trades. Despite this, Price, in a recent statement, expressed his willingness to waive the clause, prioritizing the team's best interests in any potential deals.
This opens the possibility for General Manager Kent Hughes to explore trading the contract to teams nearing the salary cap floor, a strategic move anticipated as the Canadiens navigate their rebuild. This fortuitously aligns with the ongoing increase in the NHL salary cap, offering the Canadiens a promising trajectory as they navigate the rebuilding phase.