Montreal Canadiens Defenseman Signs In Sweden

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Frederic Allard, who was set to become an unrestricted free agent, has chosen a new path for his career.

The 25-year-old has signed a two-year contract with Lulea of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL).

Allard's NHL experience has been limited, with a total of four appearances for the Canadiens, including three games this season after being acquired from the Los Angeles Kings. He also played one game for the Nashville Predators in 2021, who drafted him in 2016.

Vi säger välkommen till Frédéric Allard!https://t.co/1hSObPD9my pic.twitter.com/rfykOt4g50

— Luleå Hockey (@LuleaHockey) May 9, 2023

Throughout his professional career, primarily in the AHL, Allard has played 297 games over six seasons with AHL affiliate teams of the Predators, Kings, and Canadiens, recording 23 goals, 91 assists, while also racking up 114 penalty minutes.

In the playoffs, he contributed three goals and three assists in 11 games. While he may have received NHL offers, likely on two-way contracts, Allard has decided to embark on a new challenge in Sweden.

His move to Lulea provides an opportunity to showcase his skills in Europe, and he remains a player of interest for potential future returns to North America.

Photo Credit:  Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports