The Montreal Canadiens have made a strategic move by signing AHL forwards Jared Davidson and Hunter McKown to one-year, two-way contracts. This decision comes as a surprise to many, as both players have yet to make their mark in the NHL. While Davidson has spent his entire professional career with the AHL's Laval Rocket, McKown is an undrafted free agent with no prior NHL experience.
What makes this move particularly intriguing is the potential for both players to develop into valuable assets for the Canadiens. Davidson, a 24-year-old forward, has shown promise in the AHL, with 16-9-23 point totals in 53 regular season games. His size (5'11", 183 lbs) and playmaking abilities make him a versatile player who can contribute to the team's success.
McKown, on the other hand, is a 23-year-old right-handed center who was acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets in a trade involving Luke Tuch. With 9-16-25 point totals in 63 AHL games, McKown has demonstrated his ability to produce points consistently. His size (6'1", 192 lbs) and playmaking skills could make him a valuable addition to the Canadiens' farm system.
However, the real question remains: what does this mean for the Canadiens' NHL roster? With both players having yet to make their NHL debut, it's possible that they will spend most of the season in the AHL. But the Canadiens' farm system is already well-stocked, so this move could be a strategic investment in the future of the team.
In my opinion, the Canadiens are taking a calculated risk by signing these two players. While they may not have the immediate impact that some fans might hope for, they offer the potential for long-term development and growth. The organization's focus on building a strong foundation through the AHL is a smart strategy, and these signings could be a key part of that plan.
What makes this move even more fascinating is the potential for both players to develop into key contributors for the Canadiens. With the right coaching and development, they could become valuable pieces in the team's future success. The organization's commitment to developing young talent is a positive sign, and these signings could be a significant step in that direction.
