For the first time since the Carolina Hurricanes tendered an offer sheet to
Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin is speaking to the media. After letting Kotkaniemi, a former 3rd overall pick, walk to the Canes by refusing to match the offer of $6.1 million for one season, Bergevin defended the development of the Habs' young players. However, he did admit to one mistake with Kotkaniemi.
When Kotkaniemi attended his first NHL training camp at 18 years of age, many assumed he would be sent back to Finland for at least another year before being brought to North America full-time. However, the youngster impressed during camp and was kept with the Canadiens for the entire season. After a good first season, Kotkaniemi struggled in his second and would end up doing a stint in the AHL before the league was shut down due to COVID-19.
While speaking with reporters Monday, Bergevin admitted another year in Finland was likely the best move for Kotkaniemi, adding the team will learn from that experience. At the same time, Bergevin reiterated that players also have a responsibility for their own development and it isn't entirely on the team.
As for trading for
Christian Dvorak immediately after letting Kotkaniemi walk, Bergevin stated he's a player the team has been watching for a while. He called Dvorak a solid two way centre who can help on both special teams. Bergevin also said he was planning to go on vacation last week until he was informed of the offer sheet to Kotkaniemi. Somewhere, Carolina owner Tom Dundon is likely smiling about that.
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