NHL Rumors: Canadiens Starting Contract Talks With Star

The Montreal Canadiens are looking to the future and have begun contract extension talks with Cole Caufield, per David Pagnotta. The team is in a fairly decent spot in the standings, but aren't expected to compete this season. Instead, the top line of Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Kirby Dach continue to form great chemistry and lead the team.

The Canadiens already have Suzuki locked up for seven more seasons and Dach under contract for four, so the final piece of their stellar young top line is Caufield.

Speaking of numbers, I could see Caufield earning just as much, if not a little less AAV than Suzuki who makes $7.875 a year. The reasoning being Suzuki is the captain, the number one centre, and leading the team in goals and points this season. He also plays over two minutes more per game than any other forward.

It's very important for the Canadiens to sign Caufield to a long-term deal before the cap rises too much as he is a key piece for the future of the team. They will have more than enough space to sign the winger after the season when a few larger contracts expire.