The world of professional hockey is no stranger to unexpected twists, but the latest development involving Montreal Canadiens goaltender Connor Hughes has left fans and insiders alike scratching their heads. In a move that has raised more than a few eyebrows, Hughes—who quickly became a fan favorite with the Laval Rocket—has officially announced his departure from the organization in the midst of the team’s playoff push.

Despite being under contract with the Canadiens and currently sidelined by injury, Hughes has signed a new five-year deal to return to Europe, a decision made public while his North American season is still technically alive.

This unusual situation has sparked plenty of conversation about timing, loyalty, and the business side of hockey. As the Laval Rocket battle for postseason glory, the sudden exit of a key goaltender under these circumstances is a stark reminder of how unpredictable a player’s journey can be. While some may question the process and the timing of the announcement, one thing is certain: Connor Hughes’ brief but memorable chapter with the Canadiens organization has come to an abrupt and dramatic close, leaving many to wonder what truly led to this rare turn of events.

Montreal Canadiens goalie Connor Hughes

Photo credit: NHL

We mentioned it a few days ago, but it’s now officially confirmed for a player who was well-liked with the Laval Rocket.

Connor Hughes, signed as a free agent last summer by Kent Hughes, has ultimately decided to return to Europe.

The goaltender ends up having just a brief stint within the Canadiens organization, but the circumstances surrounding his departure are quite unusual.

I don’t remember ever seeing anything like this.

Connor Hughes’ 5-year contract just announced and made official, right in the middle of the Laval Rocket’s playoff run

It’s a truly strange situation because Hughes is still under contract with the Montreal Canadiens, is currently on the Laval Rocket’s injured list, and his current team is right in the midst of the playoffs.

Let’s not forget that Hughes has a valid NHL contract, announced by the Montreal Canadiens, and a contract that was directly offered by Kent Hughes.

So this is not insignificant.

It’s understood that with Jacob Fowler’s arrival, Hughes was pushed to the sidelines (especially since he’s injured), but his team in Switzerland really could’ve waited before announcing his signing, especially considering he’s technically not even a free agent at the moment.

Here’s the official announcement from his next team.

It’s probably not illegal under IIHF rules, but it’s still unusual, and most experts agree that the situation is quite strange.

It won’t happen, but what if the Canadiens suddenly decided to offer him a major contract extension?

In any case, it’s settled for Connor Hughes.

His time with the Montreal Canadiens organization is over, even though his current contract isn’t.

Hughes, 28, posted a 15-12-2 record this season under coach Pascal Vincent, with a goals-against average of 2.58 and a save percentage of .905.