The Montreal Canadiens are wasting no time making moves as their offseason begins, signaling a proactive approach from general manager Kent Hughes. In the wake of their elimination by the Washington Capitals, the organization has already confirmed a pair of roster changes that could have a significant impact on their AHL affiliate, the Laval Rocket.

With Oliver Kapanen and goaltender Cayden Primeau both being assigned to Laval, the Rocket are gaining crucial reinforcements just as their playoff push intensifies. These decisions mark the first steps in what promises to be an eventful summer for the Canadiens, as management prepares to address key roster questions and shape the team’s future.

With more announcements expected soon and a pivotal press conference on the horizon, all eyes are on Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton as they chart the next course for Montreal hockey.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: SportsNet

We have an interesting roster move to report, which has been confirmed by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

In fact, there are two roster moves, but we had already reported the first one, as TVA Sports journalist Nicolas Cloutier got the scoop.

In short, everything is now confirmed and official.

The Canadiens Confirm Oliver Kapanen Assigned to Laval Rocket, and Announce Goaltender Cayden Primeau Has Also Been Sent Down

It’ll be interesting to see how the Rocket manages its goalies now that the team has both Primeau and Jacob Fowler.

Here’s the official announcement:

This is excellent news for Pascal Vincent’s squad, strong reinforcements!

These are the first two roster moves by Kent Hughes following the Canadiens’ elimination by the Washington Capitals.

Let’s not forget, the Rocket currently leads 2-0 in their first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Monsters, thanks in part to the stellar play of goalie Fowler:

Promising signs for what’s to come!

As for the next decisions from Kent Hughes, we may get clues as early as Monday morning during his press conference alongside Jeff Gorton.

It will be a season-ending media availability, but also a prime opportunity for Hughes and Gorton to lay out their plans for the summer.

Players like Christian Dvorak, Joel Armia, and Michael Pezzetta are all looking for new contracts.

You can be sure Hughes and Gorton will be questioned on topics like that.

Major decisions are on the horizon for the Montreal Canadiens in the coming weeks.