Josh Anderson Sends Clear Message About His Canadiens Future as UFA Looms

Montreal Canadiens forward Josh Anderson has informed general manager Kent Hughes that he wants to sign a long-term extension with the club, according to NHL insider Darren Dreger. Anderson, who is currently in the final season of his seven-year, $38.5 million contract carrying an annual cap hit of $5.5 million, is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

Dreger reported that contract discussions between the Canadiens and Anderson are expected to begin soon. The 32-year-old alternate captain has enjoyed a productive start to the 2026-27 NHL season, recording four goals and two assists in his first seven games after previously helping Montreal reach the 2021 Stanley Cup Final.