PWHL Montreal has one of the largest groups of players in the league who will find their jobs in jeopardy as the team looks to course correct following a disappointing end to their season. Here's a look at who Montreal should attempt to extend prior to free agency.
PWHL Montreal has one of the largest groups of players in the league who will find their jobs in jeopardy as the team looks to course correct following a disappointing end to their season. Here's a look at who Montreal should attempt to extend prior to free agency.
Things did not go as planned for PWHL Montreal. Not by a long shot. Fans were excited by a roster that included Marie-Philip Poulin, Ann-Renee Desbiens, Laura Stacey, and Erin Ambrose. But they struggled through injuries, showed they did not trust their depth in the playoffs, and ultimately, found themselves swept in the opening round of playoffs, and are now looking at a roster with perhaps more holes than any other in the PWHL.
Who are PWHL Montreal's Free Agents?
Gabrielle David, Jillian Dempsey, Claire Dalton, Sarah Bujold, Catherine Dubois, Mikyla Grant-Mentis, Sarah Lefort, Alex Poznikoff, Madison Bizal, Amanda Boulier, Catherine Daoust, Mariah Keopple, Brigitte Laganiere, Elaine Chuli, and Marlene Boissonnault were Montreal's players competing on one year contracts this season.
Who should Montreal prioritize to extend?
It's not a long list. Montreal will probably re-up a few others from their free agent pool, as much out of necessity as want, and they'll likely have some sway with a group who want to be in the city, but others will certainly entertain the idea of leaving rather than sitting on the bench another playoff. Defenders Amanda Boulier and Mariah Keopple seem like the most obvious names on Montreal's roster that they'll look to keep. Boulier cost them a hefty price via trade, and after switching her representation to Montreal based Quartexx, it's likely she wants to stay, but may also seek a raise. Mariah Keopple can likely be had cheap, but her value to the team exceeded any expectation. If she proves it again this year, she will deserve more. Elaine Chuli was perhaps the best back up in the league this season. If Montreal can keep her, it's a major advantage given the fact Ann-Renee Desbiens was good but not great this year. The final name that Montreal will likely offer a one year deal to moving forward is Mikyla Grant-Mentis. After showing her value in the playoffs, Grant-Mentis may be open to listening to what's out there, but until money opens up for players following the expiration of the league's 36 guaranteed three-year deals, staying where you have value and will get opportunities may be worth more than the pittance available on the market elsewhere. It wouldn't be surprising to see Montreal look to keep Claire Dalton either, as she showed year one promise and will be looked upon to take another step in her sophomore season.