Canadiens Lock In Rising Star: Jayden Struble Inks Two-Year Deal, Dodges Arbitration Drama…Read More…
Montreal, QC – July 28, 2025
The Montreal Canadiens have taken a decisive step in solidifying their defensive core, officially announcing that 23-year-old blueliner Jayden Struble has signed a two-year contract extension with the team, avoiding what could have been a tense arbitration hearing. The deal, worth $1.1 million annually, ensures that Struble remains a key figure on the Canadiens’ back end through the 2026–27 NHL season.
The announcement came just hours before Struble and the Canadiens were scheduled to present their respective cases before an independent arbitrator, a process that often leaves both parties feeling strained. Instead, the two sides found common ground and sealed a deal that reflects the organization’s belief in Struble’s upside and his growing role within the team.
A Rising Star on the Blue Line
Struble, who was drafted 46th overall in the second round of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, has steadily developed into a reliable defenseman with a blend of physicality, skating, and composure under pressure. After four seasons with Northeastern University in the NCAA and a brief stint in the AHL with the Laval Rocket, Struble made his full-time NHL debut last season with the Canadiens.
In 2024–25, Struble appeared in 62 games for Montreal, notching 3 goals and 12 assists while averaging just over 16 minutes of ice time per game. His defensive-zone awareness and gritty style of play earned praise from both fans and coaching staff alike. While his offensive numbers are still developing, his steady presence and smart decision-making make him a promising piece of the Canadiens’ long-term puzzle.
“Jayden made significant strides last season,” Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes said in a statement. “He embraced every challenge we gave him, showed resilience in difficult moments, and earned the trust of our coaching staff. This two-year deal reflects our confidence in his ability to continue that progression.”
Avoiding Arbitration — A Win for Both Sides
NHL salary arbitration can often be a difficult and emotionally taxing process for both player and team. Players are forced to hear their perceived weaknesses laid bare, while clubs risk damaging relationships with young talent. By reaching an agreement before the hearing, both Struble and the Canadiens avoided what could have been an awkward and public confrontation.
For Struble, the deal represents a level of security and commitment as he continues to climb the ranks of the NHL.
“I’m thrilled to be staying in Montreal,” Struble said during a Zoom press conference on Monday afternoon. “This city, this fan base, and this organization mean a lot to me. I’m grateful for the belief management has shown in me, and I’m ready to keep working to prove them right.”
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that talks began to heat up in the final 48 hours before the arbitration deadline. While both sides were initially apart in terms of valuation — Struble’s camp reportedly sought closer to $1.4 million annually — a compromise was struck as the clock ticked down. The final agreement not only provides Struble with a raise but also gives the Canadiens flexibility under the salary cap.
A Defensive Corps in Transition
The Canadiens’ blue line has been an area of transformation over the past few seasons, as the team rebuilds from within. With veteran stalwarts like David Savard nearing the twilight of their careers and younger prospects such as Kaiden Guhle, Arber Xhekaj, and Lane Hutson rising through the ranks, Montreal is clearly investing in its youth.
Struble fits right into this evolving defensive structure — a player who’s not only willing to get his hands dirty in the corners but is also mobile enough to keep up with today’s high-speed NHL game. His physical game, combined with an ever-improving hockey IQ, makes him a versatile option for head coach Martin St. Louis.
“Jayden brings a lot of energy and determination to our group,” said St. Louis. “He’s still learning, but he listens, competes hard every night, and sets a tone. He’s one of those guys you want in the trenches.”
Looking Ahead
With Struble now under contract, the Canadiens can turn their attention to other offseason priorities. There are still a few roster decisions to be made, particularly on the bottom-pairing defense and forward depth charts, but locking in Struble removes a major item from the team’s to-do list.
The 2025–26 season will be pivotal for Struble. With a two-year deal in place, he’ll have the chance to elevate his game, potentially earning a longer-term contract in the future. For Montreal, it’s an affordable and low-risk move with the potential for high reward.
“This is just the beginning,” Struble said. “I want to grow into a leader on this team. I want to win in Montreal. That’s the dream, and I’m going to give everything I have to make it a reality.”
As the Canadiens continue building for a return to playoff contention, keeping players like Jayden Struble in the fold sends a clear message: the youth movement in Montreal is not only alive but being actively nurtured and trusted. And in the unforgiving landscape of the NHL, that kind of belief might just be the difference-maker.
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