That included offensive-minded defenseman Matt Taormina, who registered 60 points, including 15 goals, in 70 games with the Syracuse Crunch in 2016-17, and centerman Byron Froese, who scored 27 goals in 54 games last year. Both accepted two-year contracts with the Habs.
Froese, 26, was given a two-way contract for the first year and a one-way deal for the second. Taormina, meanwhile, received a two-way contract for both seasons.
Both Froese and Taormina, however, aren't just content with securing spots in Laval with the Rocket come fall. They're hoping to play with the big club, which serves as strong motivation to leave everything they have out on the ice.
"My number one goal is to play in the NHL and play for the Montreal Canadiens. That's where everyone wants to be. But, the fact that Laval is so close to Montreal and a new team, it's going to be exciting even if I end up down there. But, I'm going to plan on making it to the NHL and be a full-timer in the Montreal Canadiens lineup," mentioned Froese, shortly after signing with the Canadiens on Saturday.