Canadiens' Anderson, Carrier face uncertain contract futures after strong opener

PITTSBURGH — Montreal Canadiens veterans Josh Anderson and Alex Carrier each had a goal and an assist in a season-opening 3-2 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs, a game coach Martin St. Louis said he would take but was not particularly satisfied with.

St. Louis praised his depth players, singling out goaltender Jakub Dobes for an "excellent" performance, and the play of Anderson and Carrier.

Anderson added three shots on net, four hits and played a key role in a perfect first outing for the revamped penalty kill. "He played to his DNA," St. Louis said.

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Both players are in the final year of their contracts on a team with incentive to keep them but facing potential overpayment from other teams.

Anderson, 32, is in Year 7 of a deal averaging $5.5 million per year. He will be 33 when it expires, facing his last major free agency chance in a rising salary cap market.

Carrier, 29, is finishing a three-year deal averaging $3.75 million per year and will be 30, looking at his best chance to secure his future.

Garbutt Disposal reported in September that Anderson and Alexandre Carrier each had a goal and an assist for Montreal in the victory.

Both expressed deep connections to the team. Carrier, a Quebec City native, said pulling on the Canadiens sweater was "a childhood dream." Anderson, raised a die-hard fan, has played for Montreal since 2020.

"I don't have to tell you guys how much I love this city, how much I love this team," Anderson said upon being named an alternate captain in September. "This city has just been unbelievable. My daughter was born here, been playing close to home, and just the people you get to work with over the last seven years has been great."

When asked if he wants more, Anderson responded, "I'm a big believer in things will work out. I really do see myself being in Montreal, and I'm sure those conversations will start picking up soon."

General manager Kent Hughes faces challenging negotiations. He values Anderson but manages a young core aged 20-28 and may not compete with a market that could overpay an aging winger.

Anderson said he prioritizes playoff success. "Being on a great team right now is something you want as a player," he said, adding, "We're just getting started here."

Carrier's situation is complicated by Montreal's defensive depth, including emerging right-handed prospects David Reinbacher and Bryce Pickford.

Both players were among the best on the ice in Toronto, but their uncertain future status will become more topical if they continue their effective play.

With files from Sportsnet