Benoit-Olivier Groulx is now free as a bird after not receiving a qualifying offer from the Anaheim Ducks.
This is an opportunity that the Montreal Canadiens should not ignore, offering him a two-way contract so that he can play in Laval.
Groulx, 24, has all the defensive qualities to succeed.
His coach, Greg Cronin, was praising him in Anaheim.
“He has a good shot, excellent speed, and remarkable courage.”
“He’s tenacious, he’s competitive. He must now put it all together to create an identity as a reliable player. This is where he is in his development”Cronin said.
Unfortunately, his journey hasn’t been easy. A second-round pick in 2018, Groulx spent three seasons primarily in the American League with San Diego before starting his first full year in the NHL. He finished with two assists…in 45 games…
“I’ve been through a lot of ups and downs.”
. The season started off really well and I was sitting pretty before Christmas. My speed is up and I can make more plays in the offensive zone and control the puck better.”
So much so that he collected two assists…in 45 games…
His offense has not yet translated to the NHL: no goals and limited to two assists.
“It’s a big adaptation.
Guys are definitely smarter in how they handle the puck in the defensive zone. It’s been a little tougher, but it’s coming. I’m making more plays, and I’m taking more shots.”
Despite his intentions, the Ducks don’t want to know anything anymore. His coach is tired of waiting.
“Realistically, he’s a third- or fourth-line center for us.
We want to see him demonstrate the qualities that these types of players need to have to be reliable in this role. »
Off the ice, Groulx has also taken on a mentoring role for young defenseman Tristan Luneau, who has been living with him since the start of the season.
“I remember that Nicolas Deslauriers was there for me in my first season. I didn’t live with him, but we were always together. He wanted to take on the role of big brother and I always liked him. I try to move on to the next one by doing the same thing with Tristan “, Groux shouted.
With his experience and potential, Benoît-Olivier Groulx represents an interesting option for the Montreal Canadiens.
A two-part contract could allow it to continue to develop while bringing added marketing value to Laval. And if Evans gets injured, we can call him back to lead the 4th line.
A brilliant idea…
