Habs Ink Texier: A Calculated Bet on European Skill and Redemption

Well, hockey fans, it seems the Montreal Canadiens are at it again, making a shrewd, low-risk move that just might pay off handsomely down the line. The club officially announced today that they’ve inked French forward Alexandre Texier to a one-year, two-way contract, a deal worth $775,000 should he stick with the big club in the NHL. It’s certainly an interesting pickup, bringing a player with a unique journey back to North American hockey.

Texier, who’s only 24 years old, hails all the way from Grenoble, France. He's not entirely new to the NHL scene, having previously spent time with the Columbus Blue Jackets, the team that drafted him 45th overall in the second round back in 2017. During his tenure there, he skated in 185 NHL games, chipping in with 22 goals and 33 assists for a respectable 55 points. Not bad, right? He certainly showed flashes of the skill and speed that made him a promising prospect.

However, the past couple of seasons have seen Texier plying his trade across the pond in Switzerland, playing for the ZSC Lions in the Swiss National League. And honestly, he’s been quite good there! Just last season, in 2023-24, he posted 13 goals and 22 assists for 35 points over 46 games, a solid offensive output. What’s more, he even helped the ZSC Lions capture a championship, which is always a nice feather in the cap. It shows he can contribute to winning hockey, even if it's on a different continent.

This signing is particularly intriguing when you consider Texier’s recent history. He had stepped away from hockey for personal reasons in 2022, taking a much-needed break to focus on his well-being. To see him return, excel in Switzerland, and now get another shot in the NHL speaks volumes about his resilience and determination. It's a testament to his character, really.

Looking at what Texier brings to the Canadiens, we’re talking about a versatile forward who can play both wing and center, which is always a valuable asset for any coaching staff. He’s known for his speed, puck-handling abilities, and a knack for creating offensive opportunities. He also recently represented France at the IIHF World Championship, where he picked up 4 points in 7 games, so he's clearly still playing at a high level.

For Montreal, this is a classic, smart bet. A one-year, two-way deal means minimal risk if things don't pan out perfectly, but the upside could be significant. If Texier finds his stride, re-adapts to the North American game, and plays with the confidence he showed in Switzerland, the Canadiens could very well have unearthed a genuine middle-six contributor. It’s another calculated move by Kent Hughes and his team as they continue to reshape the Habs roster, bringing in players who might just surprise a few people.