The Montreal Canadiens have opened up a roster spot by sending Anthony Richard back to the minor leagues following last night’s loss. The minor league veteran didn’t dress, and played fewer than five minutes against the St. Louis Blues in his previous appearance. No corresponding move has been announced.
Richard, 26, has been excellent this season for the Canadiens organization, first at the minor league level and then again filling in for the NHL club. He had 31 points in 27 games for the Laval Rocket before being recalled on December 18, and chipped in his first NHL goal a few days later.
The Nashville Predators fourth-round pick from 2015 only has nine appearances in the NHL over the years, but has been a strong minor league contributor for quite some time. His return will be a big boost for the Rocket, who are 13-16-5 on the year but playing better of late. Had Richard stayed much longer, he would have needed to clear waivers again before being sent down.
By doing it now, the club protects him from any poaching teams that might have interest, while also saving some money. Richard’s one-year, two-way deal pays him $750K in the NHL and just $300K in the minor leagues.