As the Montreal Canadiens turn the page on another season, all eyes are on the future of several key players whose contracts are set to expire. The city is abuzz with rumors and speculation, with fans and analysts alike eager to know which familiar faces will return to the Bell Centre ice next year. The recent end-of-season review with general manager Kent Hughes and executive vice president Jeff Gorton offered a rare glimpse into the decision-making process taking place behind closed doors.

With the rumor mill in overdrive, questions about potential departures have dominated the headlines, particularly concerning a pair of fan favorites whose grit and determination have made them staples in Montreal’s lineup. Yet, amid the uncertainty, the Canadiens’ leadership has chosen a measured approach, emphasizing transparency and open communication with both the media and the players themselves.

Rather than closing the door on any possibilities, management has made it clear that every option remains on the table. No hasty decisions will be made as the team carefully weighs the balance between short-term results and long-term development. For now, the futures of several unrestricted free agents hang in the balance, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the offseason unfolds.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Image

We learned several interesting things during the end-of-season review from Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton of the Montreal Canadiens.

First, Hughes shut down the rumor suggesting it was already over for Christian Dvorak and Michael Pezzetta in Montreal.

In the past, we’ve seen Kent Hughes outright announce that a player would not be offered a contract, but that’s not what happened today.

Kent Hughes says the door isn’t closed for Christian Dvorak and Michael Pezzetta

In recent hours, many rumors had been circulating that it was the end for Dvorak and Pezzetta in Montreal (in Joel Armia’s case, rumors suggested he might sign a new contract here).

However, Kent Hughes was very clear with the media. No decisions have been made yet regarding the team’s pending unrestricted free agents.

This includes Joel Armia, Christian Dvorak, and Michael Pezzetta.

“Kent Hughes says that no decision has been taken regarding the club’s UFAs.

Says he needs to balance between immediate and future success. Don’t want to place long-term obstacles for young players.”

– Marco D’Amico

That’s definitely interesting!

So it’s not over yet for Dvorak and Pezzetta.

No final decision has been made.

Check out the full explanation from general manager Kent Hughes in the following video from TVA Sports:

They’ve informed the players in question that anything is still possible.