The Montreal Canadiens were one of the teams connected to Anthony Mantha when he was on the free agent market. However, the veteran winger ended up signing a two-year, $9.5 million contract with the New Jersey Devils.
While Mantha is off the board, the Canadiens still have some other UFA forward options to consider if they want to add to their group. Let’s take a look at two free agents they should consider signing because of it.
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Patrick Kane is the top UFA left and would have the potential to be a very good addition to the Canadiens’ top six. The veteran forward is still effective at this stage in his career, posting 16 goals and 57 points in 67 games last season with the Detroit Red Wings. Former Canadiens star Chris Chelios recently said that Kane is choosing between the Chicago Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres. Even if this is the case, the Habs should consider making a real push for him while he remains on the market.
Michael Bunting may not offer the same kind of offense and experience as Kane, but he could still be a solid addition to Montreal’s roster if signed. If the Canadiens brought him in, he would give them a forward who can chip in decent secondary scoring in a third-line role. He would also give them another pesky forward who isn’t afraid of the physical side of the game. In 74 games last season split between the Nashville Predators and Dallas Stars, he posted 14 goals and 33 points.
