Geoff Molson finds himself at the center of criticism this morning after Carey Price and his family were completely ignored at the Montreal Canadiens’ pre-game celebrations.
Fans only learned of the former star goalkeeper’s presence in the building when a photo of his family was posted on social media, sparking a wave of discontent.
The anger of fans is evident on social media, with many believing that Price deserved at least a brief appearance on the Jumbotron, especially when we know that Chris Nilan and Madame Béliveau were featured.
On social networks, comments are shared.
Some believe it is time to turn the page:
“He got his big ovation two years ago. »
Others express their frustration:
“I’ve been waiting for this moment all evening. »
For many, this is a sign that the organization is seeking to move away from the Price era, in order to give space to young players, notably Samuel Montembeault, who shone in front of the net last night.
We can understand Geoff Molson’s desire to look to the future and not constantly look back on the glorious past of Price, who has not played a match since 2022.
The decision not to show it could also be related to directives from the NHL, which had been unhappy with the delay in a past ceremony due to the lengthy standing ovation given to Price.
But this absence left a bitter taste for those who hoped to see their hero one last time.
Beyond the controversy, it is clear that Canadians are seeking to redefine their identity. The transition from the old guard to the new generation is well underway, and for Molson it is essential not to let the shadow of the past detract from the team’s current dynamic.
But seeing the reactions on social networks, many supporters have difficulty turning the page so easily.
At the heart of the controversy surrounding Carey Price’s absence from pre-game celebrations, a burning question arises: Is Geoff Molson tired of paying so much money for a goalie who has been retired for a long time?
After all, Price continues to be on the long-term injured list (LTIR), and his $10.5 million per year weighs heavily on the Canadiens’ payroll.
Was Molson secretly hoping Price would give him a boost by retiring early? Within two million, the former goalkeeper could have really helped the organization.
But Carey Price categorically refuses to waive the final payments of his contract.
Signed on July 2, 2017, for eight years, Price’s contract guarantees him a total of $84 million through 2026, and he is determined to make every penny.
In 2024-2025, he will reach the 7th year of this gigantic agreement, knowing that he will have $7.5 million left to pocket in 2025-2026, most of which will be a signing bonus ($5.5 million)
For the veteran, there is no question of leaving money on the table or doing the Canadiens’ owner a favor, despite criticism from some fans who believe he could have helped the team by retiring. .
Why would Price deprive himself of the last two million dollars, even after having already collected $82 million? This amount may seem negligible compared to the rest of his contract, but for him, it is a question of principle and contractual rights.
As he has demonstrated throughout his career, Price is not one to buckle under pressure, and this situation is no exception.
The repercussions of his decision for the team are not negligible. If Price decided to retire before the 2025-2026 season after pocketing his $5.5 million bonus, the Canadian could exceed the salary cap by 10% during the offseason and then withdraw the $10.5 million that his contract occupies the payroll, thus providing valuable financial flexibility to the organization.
However, by continuing on the LTIR, these possibilities disappear, forcing the CH to juggle with limited salary space.
Some will say that Price’s refusal to officially hang up his skates is a financial burden for the Canadian, an obstacle to the complete recovery of the team.
Others, on the contrary, will see it as a legitimate gesture on the part of an athlete who simply wishes to honor the contract he signed, he who gave everything for the organization.
Regardless, Molson and the Canadiens’ leaders will have to find creative ways to navigate through this salary constraint, while knowing that Carey Price is keen on these two million dollars.
In the end, Carey Price’s position is clear: he has no intention of giving up an inch on the final payments of his contract, regardless of the consequences for the Canadian.
This categorical refusal forces Geoff Molson to deal with a frustrating reality, that of seeing a significant portion of his payroll immobilized by a player who will never put on the uniform again.
For Molson, it’s a stark reminder that even legends have a price, and that Marc Bergevin’s choices still hurt him.
If the Canadian really wants to turn the page, he will have to do so by carrying this burden to the end, because the “Prince of Vancouver” will not give up what is rightfully his.
And that’s no reason not to honor him and his family.
Money is one thing. Respect is another.
