Quebec star striker Jonathan Huberdeau has indeed caught wind of the rumors that sent him to Montreal over the summer. However, this did not change his desire to have a long-term commitment with the Calgary Flames.
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The Saint-Jérôme native didn’t have time to digest being involved in the National Hockey League’s (NHL) deal of the year alongside Matthew Tkachuk and Mackenzie Weegar, leading some to end his career in a habs continued uniform.
At the time of his departure from the organization that drafted him, the Florida Panthers, Huberdeau was on track to achieve full autonomy at the end of the 2022-2023 season.
Two weeks later, however, he signed a stunning eight-year, $84 million deal with the Alberta team.
“I know several people have suggested that I play Calgary for a year and then join the Canadiens,” Huberdeau told Sportsnet’s podcast 32 Thoughts.
“Even though I love Montreal, I don’t know. I think it’s a difficult city for Quebecers. The flames have taken over me. If the Canadian wanted my services, he would have made a deal along those lines. I want to play for a team that wants me.”
Huberdeau will nearly double his annual salary since the 2023-2024 campaign, from $5.5 million to $10.5 million. That inevitable factor aside, the gamemaker was delighted with Flames general manager Brad Treliving’s plan. Recall that they had just met over dinner in Montreal a few days before Huberdeau signed his new contract.
“When Brad came to Montreal we had a great discussion. We didn’t talk about a contract; we got to know each other better. I like his philosophy and the direction the team is taking.”
“I’m joining a team that can win now. That’s why I wanted to get involved with this team and I know I’ll be playing in Calgary for the next nine years.