Kent Hughes didn’t drag goaltender Cayden Primeau’s file on the corner of his desk. The general manager of the Canadian made him sign a new one-part three-season contract yesterday.
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During his press briefing on Wednesday, Hughes announced that an agreement was imminent with Primeau. It was indeed the case.
Whether he plays in Montreal or Laval, the 23-year-old goaltender is guaranteed to pocket $770,000 (22-23 season), $800,000 (23-24) and $1.1 million (24-25). An agreement similar to the one Charlie Lindgren accepted in 2018 (3 years / $2.250 million).
From the depth
With this new agreement in hand, Primeau will come to the next camp with the possibility of competing with Samuel Montambeault for the position of second goaltender.
Barring a surprise or a trade, Jake Allen will be the No. 1 goaltender at the regular season opener.
Primeau could confuse the issue by knowing a good camp. However, he will have to be near perfect to change the established order.
If that’s not enough, he will continue his apprenticeship with the Laval Rocket. Last year, coach Marco Marciano did a good job with him.
Final evaluation
With this agreement, the leaders of the Canadian will have more time to evaluate his choice of seventh round in 2017.
Last year, Primeau had its ups and downs. He went 1-7-1 with a 4.62 GAA and .868 save percentage. Prior to being demoted with the Rocket, he had shown some concerning mental signs.
However, he picked himself up with the Rocket and had a great end to the season. In the playoffs, thanks to his prowess, he allowed the school club to reach the Eastern final.
If he delivers the same type of performance at the Canadiens’ camp, he could force the hand of Martin St-Louis and his assistants.