Johnathan Kovacevic’s revelation about his transaction sheds a surprising light on the power games within the management of the Montreal Canadiens.
When Kovacevic told the media that it was Jeff Gorton, and not Kent Hughes, who managed his departure to the New Jersey Devils, a question immediately arose: who is really in charge of the CH?
Would Gorton have made the mistake of letting go of a quality defender who, today, stands out in the Devils’ top 4?
“There is one year left on my contract and for their part, they have 1st round picks that they are trying to develop: David Reinbacher, Mailloux, Barron. There would have been no space for them.
Jeff Gorton explained this to me. I felt last year that they were going in that direction. I understand that and I’m grateful that they gave me this fresh start. I could have ended up in lots of places. I’m glad it’s here. »
For supporters and observers, this leaves a bitter aftertaste and exposes a series of strategic choices that seem increasingly questionable.
Kovacevic, without feeling resentful, did not fail to note that he thought he had been “underestimated” by the Habs.
According to him, his departure was a question of context, youth and long-term plans. Gorton, he reportedly assured him, made the move to make room for defensive prospects such as David Reinbacher, Logan Mailloux and Justin Barron.
However, that strategy is in question today: Reinbacher is injured and could miss the season, Mailloux was not ready for the NHL and was sent back to Laval, and Barron has yet to prove he can play a leading role in the alignment.
While the CH tries to “patch” the holes, even moving left-handed players (Guhle, Struble) to the right to fill the gaps, Kovacevic shines in New Jersey.
By playing nearly 21 minutes per game and taking on a vital role on the penalty kill, he proved he was ready for more responsibility.
His production of six points in 15 games is just the icing on the cake of his blossoming in an environment that is fully banking on him.
To add to the frustration of Montreal fans, the Kovacevic trade was orchestrated for a mere fourth-round pick.
A paltry sum for a player who is now playing in the top 4 of a team on the rise. Did Gorton and Hughes, too focused on their defensive hopes, make a monumental mistake by releasing a defender with undervalued potential? In any case, this is what Kovacevic’s performances tend to demonstrate.
This type of decision demonstrates a certain arrogance on the part of management.
A measly 4th round pick for such a reliable defenseman who is so well-liked in the room is ridiculous.
The decision to let such a solid player leave to free up space for still-uncertain prospects looks more and more like an error in judgment that serves as a reminder of both the harsh reality of the NHL and the weight of every decision.
Especially if it was Gorton who forced him.
As Kovacevic prepares to face his former team on the ice this Thursday, it is difficult not to see a “discomfort” within the Montreal organization.
Jeff Gorton, in his ambiguous role between boss and shadow manager, has clearly made major decisions which, in retrospect, are a handicap for the team he is trying to build.
Hughes is not the real GM. Jeff Gorton is. It’s time to make it happen.
