Montreal Canadiens sign Chris Kreider and extend Zach Bolduc

The Montreal Canadiens have made significant roster moves ahead of the 2026-27 season, headlined by the signing of veteran forward Chris Kreider. Kreider joins the team on a one-year contract with an average annual value of $2.15 million, which includes performance bonuses that could increase the total value to approximately $5 million. Kreider arrives after the Anaheim Ducks terminated his contract to create salary-cap flexibility. His signing reunites him with former teammate and current Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis.

In addition to the Kreider signing, the Canadiens have secured restricted free agent Zachary Bolduc with a four-year contract extension. The deal carries an average annual value of $4.2 million. Bolduc, a 23-year-old forward acquired from the St. Louis Blues, is expected to provide energy and scoring depth to the roster.

While the Kreider signing has sparked discussion among fans due to a 2014 collision with former Canadiens goaltender Carey Price, the veteran forward expressed excitement about joining the organization and the passion of the Montreal hockey community.