Montreal Canadiens defenceman Mike Matheson will not receive an exemption from a potential National Hockey League expansion draft, even if the league introduces a 33rd franchise before his current no-movement clause converts to a partial no-trade clause, according to contract negotiations finalized prior to his five-year, $30-million extension signed last October.
Matheson Expansion Draft Status and Contract Terms
Speculation regarding a potential 2029 expansion draft has circulated across Montreal Canadiens blogs and podcasts, with analysts frequently mapping out probable protection lists. However, according to contract terms negotiated prior to his October signing, Matheson remains fully exposed to future expansion draft selection rules regardless of whether a new franchise begins play in 2027, 2028, or 2029.
Zachary Bolduc Extension Outlook and Development
Forward Zachary Bolduc enters the upcoming season following a productive stretch that included three goals and seven points while averaging 11:23 of ice time during Montreal’s 19-game Eastern Conference Final run, according to recent player assessments. Speaking previously to La Presse reporter Guillaume Lefrancois, Bolduc indicated that his next contract terms were managed by agent Pat Brisson. Industry projections anticipate a short-to-medium-term agreement, potentially spanning three years at approximately $4 million annually, ahead of the team’s reporting date for physicals on Sept. 16.
Did you know? Zachary Bolduc gained 175 games of NHL experience since 2024, regaining the straightforward, hardnosed identity he displayed during his rookie season with the St. Louis Blues.
Arber Xhekaj Contract Negotiations and Roster Standing
Defenceman Arber Xhekaj remains unsigned a little over two weeks prior to the opening of training camp, with both team management and player representatives declining public comment on the ongoing discussions. According to roster evaluations, Xhekaj has weighed fair-value contract options against concerns regarding regular playing time, particularly after averaging under 12 minutes of ice time across 40 games last season alongside 17 scratches. While general manager Kent Hughes explores potential blue line transactions to address forward needs, Xhekaj’s long-term utilization in Montreal remains a central factor in the ongoing negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Mike Matheson be exempt from an NHL expansion draft?
No. According to the terms of his contract extension signed with the Montreal Canadiens last October, his existing agreement does not grant an expansion draft exemption.
What are the expectations for Zachary Bolduc’s next contract?
Industry observers project a short-to-medium-term deal, estimated around three years at $4 million per season, expected to be finalized before training camp physicals begin on Sept. 16.
Why has Arber Xhekaj’s contract negotiation taken time?
According to roster analysis, Xhekaj has evaluated fair-value options against his desire for consistent playing time and a clear pathway to regular usage within Montreal’s deep defensive corps.
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