Stanley Cup champion Tyler Johnson drawing interest from Canadian team
The Montreal Canadiens are searching for depth scoring for their lineup, the team is currently focused on two targets including Tyler Johnson.
The Montreal Canadiens are seeking to bolster their scoring lineup, and two free agents have emerged as potential targets. The team has lacked a consistent goal scorer in recent decades, with Max Pacioretty being the highest single-season goal scorer since 1993-94. While Cole Caufield shows promise, the team needs depth scoring help, as evident from the combined 32 goals scored by six players last season.
Eric Engels of Sportsnet suggests that Tyler Johnson, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, and 27-year-old Daniel Sprong could be potential free agent targets. However, Engels is skeptical about the Canadiens signing either player and believes the trade market might be a better option for General Manager Kent Hughes to address the team's scoring needs.
The Canadiens' bottom-six forwards struggled with scoring last season, and the team needs more production from this group. While two players from that group have moved on, the team still requires additional scoring depth. Hughes may consider adding a forward to the roster instead of relying on prospects like Owen Beck or Oliver Kapanen.
"Vladimir Tarasenko's two-year, $9.5-million contract with the Detroit Red Wings, which was signed Wednesday, leaves Daniel Sprong (18 goals) and Tyler Johnson (17 goals) as the highest-scoring unrestricted free agents remaining on the market.
Not exactly bona fide top-six options for the Canadiens, if they're still looking for help via this route.
I'm not too sure they are.
I'm not saying they won't try to sign either player, but I don't think I'd necessarily bet my life savings on it." Engels said.
Not exactly bona fide top-six options for the Canadiens, if they're still looking for help via this route.
I'm not too sure they are.
I'm not saying they won't try to sign either player, but I don't think I'd necessarily bet my life savings on it." Engels said.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, it remains to be seen how Hughes will address the team's scoring needs. Adding a forward through free agency or trade could be a viable option, and fans will be watching closely to see how the team evolves in the coming weeks and months.
Source: Eric Engels/Sportsnet
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