The Montreal Canadiens have secured their franchise cornerstone for the long haul. In a monumental move that has sent shockwaves across the NHL, the Habs announced today that captain Nick Suzuki has signed a blockbuster contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in Canadiens history.
The 25-year-old centerman inked an eight-year deal worth a reported $96 million, averaging $12 million per season. The extension, which kicks in next season, not only cements Suzuki’s status as the face of the franchise but also underscores the organization’s commitment to building around its young core.
General Manager Kent Hughes lauded the agreement in a press conference at the Bell Centre.
“Nick represents everything we want in a leader — skill, character, and commitment. We believe he’s just entering his prime, and we’re thrilled to have him lead our team for years to come,” Hughes said.
Suzuki, who was named captain in 2022, has steadily elevated his game each season. In the 2024–25 campaign, he posted career highs in points and emerged as one of the league’s premier two-way forwards. His leadership on and off the ice has been instrumental in guiding a young Canadiens squad through a pivotal rebuild phase.
“It’s a huge honor,” Suzuki said following the announcement. “Montreal is home for me. I’m excited about where this team is headed, and I want to be a part of bringing a championship back to this city.”
The deal marks a turning point for the Canadiens, who now boast one of the league’s most promising cores, including Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovský, and defenseman Kaiden Guhle. With Suzuki locked in long-term, the Canadiens appear poised to shift from rebuilding to contending in the near future.
Fans flooded social media with reactions, many celebrating the move as a win for a franchise hungry for stability and star power. While the price tag is steep, there’s no question: the Habs believe Nick Suzuki is worth every penny.
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