3 Offseason Targets For Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens are in a weird spot. Some may say they are a little ahead of schedule, but the team isn't going to look back now with the talent on the team. Some players are going to be leaving and it is an opportunity to make sure the Canadiens get back to the playoffs next season.

Sam Bennett

What looks to be the biggest need for the Canadiens is the role of second line center. Some players have given it a shot and Christian Dvorak is not the answer. Alex Newhook may be better on the wing and Montreal can't trust the health of Kirby Dach. Bringing in a player like Sam Bennett gives the team security and options, plus he plays a style that will make the team harder to play against in the playoffs. Bennett can produce and fits right into the second line perfectly on most teams.

James van Riemsdyk

The Canadiens may be looking for a little more depth and given his production compared to his opportunity this season, James van Riemsdyk did surprisingly well. He is 35 years old, but he doesn't even have to play every game at this point in his career. The Columbus Blue Jackets got 16 goals and 35 points in 69 games out of him this season and Montreal could use a little more scoring.

Nick Perbix

With David Savard retiring after the season, there is a role on the back-end. Do I think Logan Mailloux can step in and fill that role? Not just yet. I don't know if the Canadiens are willing to give David Reinbacher a full shot yet with all of his injuries. This should call for a third pairing d-man who can be signed for a year to not only provide security and hold the team over, but to be bumped down at times. Nick Perbix has played this type of role in Tampa Bay on a strong team for three years now.