The Montreal Canadiens have taken significant steps in finalizing their roster ahead of the 2025-2026 season. On Sunday afternoon, the organization announced that they placed goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen and forward Samuel Blais on waivers. In addition, defenseman Adam Engström and forwards Owen Beck and Florian Xhekaj have been assigned to the Laval Rocket.
Key Roster Changes for Canadiens
This announcement confirms that forwards Joe Veleno and Oliver Kapanen will start the season with the Canadiens. Should Kahkonen and Blais go unclaimed, they will also join the Rocket.
Details of the Waiver Process
- The Canadiens have 22 players on their roster, with a maximum of 23.
- Samuel Blais’ placement on waivers was not mandatory, as the team could have retained him.
- Blais spent the entire previous season in the American Hockey League (AHL), reducing the likelihood of being claimed.
- This move frees up space to potentially acquire another player from waivers before Monday’s 5 PM deadline.
Team Dynamics Ahead of the Season
The roster moves come as no surprise, as it became evident during training camp that Kapanen had secured the confidence of head coach Martin St-Louis. Kapanen outperformed Beck in the battle for the final offensive positions.
Engström and Kahkonen play in areas where the Canadiens currently have full rosters. In contrast, Beck and Xhekaj found themselves as reserve players in recent days. Veleno, meanwhile, gained confidence throughout the training camp and delivered a strong performance in the last preseason game.
Following their day off on Sunday, the Canadiens will resume activities on Monday. They will then travel to Toronto for their season opener against the Maple Leafs on Tuesday.
