The Montreal Canadiens were busy last night finalizing a huge trade package, but have done some more work this morning by signing restricted free agent Michael McCarron to a one-year, two-way contract worth just over $874K at the NHL level.
McCarron, 23, is likely nearing the end of his rope in Montreal after once being a top prospect selected in the first round of the 2013 draft. Since then, the 6’6″ center’s production has steadily declined to a point in which he isn’t even much of an offensive threat in the minor leagues. In 69 NHL contests over the last few seasons, McCarron has recorded eight points including just a single assist in his 18-game 2017-18 stint. There could be a defensive role for him on a roster, but as the NHL moves more and more towards skill and speed, the big bruising center may be falling a little out of touch.
Still, there should be a real opportunity for him to show his improvement this season. Young enough to take a substantial step forward, Montreal will be evaluating many of their young players this season in the wake of Max Pacioretty and Alex Galchenyuk trades. There is a new wave coming to lead the Canadiens into their next competitive window, and management would surely like nothing better than for McCarron to show he can be part of it.
McCarron will be a restricted free agent again next summer, but will have arbitration rights making the decision to give him a qualifying offer much more difficult for Montreal. If he can’t catch on this season or at least be a minor league contributor, he may need a fresh chance somewhere else.