Montreal Canadiens Sign Alex Galchenyuk to a Three-Year Entry-Level Contract

The Montreal Canadiens have signed Alex Galchenyuk to a three-year entry-level contract. The 18-year-old forward was selected third overall by the Habs in this year’s NHL Entry Draft.

At 6'1" and nearly 200 pounds, Galchenyuk has the size and skill to become an impact player at center for the Habs. 

Drafted first overall by the Sarnia Sting in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection Draft, the Milwaukee native scored 31 goals and 52 assists for 83 points in his first year with the Sting. A torn ACL caused Galchenyuk to miss all but two games the following year. However, he did have two goals and two assists in six playoff games.

According to Dave Stubbs of The Montreal Gazette, Galchenyuk indicated during the Canadiens' development camp in June that his knee had been checked numerous times and it is in great condition. The report went on to say that Galchenyuk would spend the summer in Sarnia, preparing for training camp.

It will be tough to crack Montreal's lineup this year, but another season in the OHL could be the last bit of preparation Galchenyuk needs before starting his NHL career with the Canadiens.

Another member of the Sarnia Sting, Nail Yakupov, who was selected first overall by the Edmonton Oilers, also signed a three-year entry-level contract. Yakupov and Galchenyuk were unstoppable offensively in Sarnia, combining for over 180 points in the 2010-11 OHL season.

Although it's unlikely to happen, should both players return to junior this year they would certainly have a shot at matching their combined point total from two seasons ago.

The Galchenyuk signing adds to the growing list of offseason hires and signings by new GM Marc Bergevin. In addition to adding Colby Armstrong and Brandon Prust, Bergevin has signed all of the Habs restricted free agents, except for P.K. Subban.