The Montreal Canadiens are facing a significant shakeup as the offseason unfolds, with changes rippling through both their NHL roster and AHL affiliate. In a move that has caught the attention of fans and insiders alike, the organization has officially parted ways with one of its defensemen, signaling the start of what could be a turbulent summer for the team’s depth chart.

The departure marks a turning point not just for the player involved, but also for the Canadiens’ overall defensive structure—a unit already under pressure to perform as expectations rise for the coming season.

For head coach Pascal Vincent and his staff, the challenge of maintaining continuity and stability on the blue line just became more complicated. The loss is particularly impactful given the player’s experience and recent contributions at both the NHL and AHL levels. As rumors swirl about additional veteran exits, the Canadiens’ management faces tough decisions in the months ahead, balancing the need for development with the realities of roster turnover. With more departures potentially on the horizon, this offseason could prove to be a defining moment for the franchise, testing the organization’s depth and resilience as it seeks to build toward a brighter future.

Oct 24, 2023; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Gustav Lindstrom (27) waits for the play to resume against the New Jersey Devils during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

A first defenseman has officially left the Montreal Canadiens organization during the 2025 offseason.

It’s a notable loss for the Canadiens’ depth, and especially a big blow for Pascal Vincent’s squad, but it’s over for Gustav Lindstrom.

As reported by several sources, he is leaving the Canadiens to head to Europe.

“Gustav Lindstrom, who played with the Laval Rocket this season, has signed a five-year deal with Djugarden in the SHL.

Lots of veteran names likely leaving the Rocket this summer.”

– Marco D’Amico

Here is the official confirmation:

It’s over for right-shot defenseman Gustav Lindstrom within the Montreal Canadiens organization: he signs a contract in Europe

We wish him all the best moving forward.

Now 26 years old, right-handed defenseman Gustav Lindstrom recorded 11 points in 42 games this season with the Rocket (6 points in 32 NHL games last season).

He was the 38th overall pick by the Detroit Red Wings in 2017 and was acquired by the Canadiens in August 2023 as part of the Jeff Petry trade.

Lindstrom also played 14 games with the Canadiens in 2023-24.

As Marco D’Amico notes, unfortunately, more Rocket veterans are expected to follow and leave the organization.

That’s the harsh reality of the American Hockey League!

Among the other names who could be on their way out are Cayden Primeau, Alex Barré-Boulet, and Brandon Gignac.