In a significant move for the upcoming NHL season, the Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired Samuel Blais from the Montreal Canadiens. This acquisition occurred after Blais was placed on waivers by the Canadiens, making him available for other teams.
Samuel Blais’s Journey to Toronto
Samuel Blais signed a contract with the Canadiens during the summer. He battled for a 13th forward position throughout training camp. Despite his efforts, he found himself on waivers prior to the final roster cuts.
Blais aims to make a comeback in the NHL this season. Last year, he played in the American Hockey League (AHL) for the Abbotsford Canucks, where he recorded 40 points in 51 games and won the Calder Cup.
Additional Transactions
- The Maple Leafs also claimed Cayden Primeau, a former Canadiens goalie.
- Primeau struggled to secure a place with the Carolina Hurricanes but had an impressive AHL season with the Laval Rocket.
Last season, Primeau had a record of 21 wins, 2 losses, and 2 overtime losses, with a goals-against average of 1.96 and a save percentage of .927.
Meanwhile, Kaapo Kahkonen, who had previously accepted a contract with the Canadiens, went unclaimed and will join the Laval Rocket. Kahkonen had been in competition for the backup goalie position in Montreal. He is expected to team up with Jacob Fowler.
Other Notable Claims
- The Buffalo Sabres claimed Colten Ellis from the St. Louis Blues.
- The Tampa Bay Lightning selected Curtis Douglas from the Utah Mammoth.
These moves demonstrate a strategic shift as teams work to finalize their rosters ahead of the regular season.
