The Habs have once again dipped into the junior free agent market, inking centre Alexandre Alain to a three-year, entry-level contract.
The 21-year-old is no stranger to the Canadiens. He participated in development and rookie camp with the team back in the summer and clearly made a positive impression.
Alain has saved his best for last in his overage season with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada. He posted as many points in 2017-18 (87) as his last two years combined, earning himself Second Team All-Star honours. His strong play has carried over to the playoffs where he has tallied 11 goals (in just 11 games) to lead all QMJHL players while adding eight helpers; his 19 points are tied for the most in the QMJHL postseason with teammate and Ottawa prospect Drake Batherson.
He will turn pro in 2018-19 and should battle for a spot in Laval although a stint in the ECHL is often a possibility with undrafted CHL players.
Per CapFriendly, Alain’s deal breaks down the same way as Hayden Verbeek’s which is as follows:
2018-19: $650,000 base salary, $80,000 signing bonus, $70,000 in performance bonuses, $70,000 AHL salary
2019-20: $700,000 base salary, $70,000 signing bonus, no performance bonuses, $70,000 AHL salary
2020-21: $700,000 base salary, $60,000 signing bonus, no performance bonuses, $70,000 AHL salary
Alain’s Stats:
