Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
This is a very interesting development for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.
We’re talking about the new $33 million contract (total value) signed by forward Mavrik Bourque with the Nashville Predators.
Bourque, who was traded to the Predators a few days ago, quickly agreed to a new deal.
Six years at $5.5 million per season for the young Quebec native.
It’s a very interesting contract for the Montreal Canadiens because it immediately becomes a major comparable for Zachary Bolduc.
The comparison is indeed obvious when you look at the two players’ paths.
Both young players are at similar stages of their careers.
Three NHL seasons, and exactly 66 points over the past two campaigns.
A golden comparable in the upcoming negotiations between Zachary Bolduc and the Montreal Canadiens
Bourque’s contract now becomes a benchmark.
An ideal comparable for Zack Bolduc’s camp during the upcoming negotiations.
David Ettedgui summed it up well:
“The happiest guy in town is Zachary Bolduc.
Both players have three NHL seasons under their belts and have recorded exactly 66 points over the past two seasons.”
Ettedgui did point out one important difference.
Mavrik Bourque plays center, a position that generally commands a higher salary than Bolduc’s.
“I’m convinced Kent had no intention of handing out a similar contract.”
Bolduc still has strong arguments in his favor.
The young forward is coming off a 30-point season in 78 games, while also providing valuable physical play during the playoffs.
He’s exactly the type of player who makes life difficult for opponents.
The Canadiens also saw his value rise during the 2026 playoffs.
Montreal has already submitted its $874,125 qualifying offer, but everyone expects him to sign a contract worth significantly more than that.
With a fresh comparable like Mavrik Bourque’s new deal, the bar may have just been raised another level for Bolduc.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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$33 million signing gives Kent Hughes a new benchmark in Zachary Bolduc talks
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