As the NHL offseason approaches, the future of Christian Dvorak is quickly becoming a hot topic among Montreal Canadiens fans and insiders alike. With his contract set to expire and unrestricted free agency on the horizon, speculation is swirling about whether the dependable center could make a surprising return to the Habs lineup.

Dvorak’s strong finish to the season, highlighted by his chemistry with linemates Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson, has not gone unnoticed by the organization or its supporters. While the pursuit of a bigger contract elsewhere seems likely, the door remains open for a potential reunion in Montreal—provided the terms are right. As rumors intensify and the free agency period draws near, all eyes are on Kent Hughes and his next move, with many wondering if Dvorak’s journey with the Canadiens is truly over, or if a new chapter is just about to begin.

Apr 14, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens center Christian Dvorak (28) looks on in warm-up before the game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Even though he will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, the possibility of seeing Christian Dvorak return to the Canadiens shouldn’t be ruled out.

The 29-year-old American forward will be looking to land the most lucrative contract of his career after an excellent second half of the season.

The line he formed with Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson was one of the Canadiens’ most consistent throughout the season, and it’s likely that Martin St-Louis would like to have number 28 back in his lineup.

However, if Christian Dvorak does return to Montreal, it won’t be at any price.

A Big Return to Montreal for Christian Dvorak and a Two-Year Contract?

That’s at least what Arpon Basu, journalist for The Athletic, said on TSN 690, mentioning that Kent Hughes could very well offer him a one- or two-year deal.

“If he doesn’t find anything elsewhere, he could come back and tell the Canadiens he’s willing to accept a two-year contract.”

– Arpon Basu

The reporter clarified, however, that this scenario would only be considered after the opening of free agency, as Christian Dvorak will first attempt to secure a more lucrative deal with another team.

He earned $4.45 million last season, and there are real questions about whether he’ll be able to get more elsewhere in the NHL.

And you-at the right price-would you like to see Kent Hughes bring Christian Dvorak back to the Montreal Canadiens on a two-year deal?

At age 29, Dvorak recorded 33 points in 82 games this season with the Habs, including 12 goals, with a -5 plus/minus rating.

He also added two goals in five playoff games in 2025.