MONTREAL CANADIENS: Josh Anderson must get the same treatment as Joel Armia
At the beginning of the season, the Canadiens surprised many by assigning Joel Armia to Laval. It’s unusual for a team to send a seasoned player to the minors at the season’s start.
However, credit is due to the team for making the right call. Armia deserves recognition for maintaining a positive attitude, leading to his eventual recall.
CHRONIQUE PAR @begs22 DE @lapochebbr | « Alors qu’on voit maintenant le Joel Armia qu’on a toujours rêvé, peut-être que celui qui a eu l’idée de génie d’envoyer le Finlandais avec le Rocket devrait regarder en direction de Josh Anderson… » 😮👇https://t.co/53KYs5Tsun pic.twitter.com/qXEQtvmIkB
— La Poche Bleue (@lapochebleue) March 29, 2024
Presently, Armia proves his effectiveness on the second line and power play, despite not being the top player or scorer. He’s more engaged and likely prefers staying with the main team rather than returning to Laval.
Now, the question arises: why not consider a similar move with Josh Anderson? Why is he exempt from accountability? While he’s putting in effort, his performance on the ice isn’t up to par. Sending him down may not be feasible this season, but it should be a consideration for the next training camp.
#Habs Martin St-Louis on Josh Anderson: "we know Josh can scores goals in this League – he's been proven to be a 20-goal scorer – this year is likely going to be one-off because there's a lot in that player. I think he just found himself chasing the season a little bit…"
— Priyanta Emrith (@HabsInHighHeels) April 1, 2024
Steve Bégin, along with Marc-André Perreault from the Blue Pocket, recently discussed this topic, aiming to provoke a response from Josh similar to Joel’s.
In 69 games this season, Anderson has only managed to tally eight goals and 10 assists. Considering his dynamic abilities, this output falls far short, especially given the high expectations placed on him when he was acquired by Marc Bergevin a few years ago for his unique playing style.
My column on former Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin still having his fingerprints on team even though there are only six players left from roster that went to Stanley Cup final in 2021 #Habs #HabsIO: https://t.co/nlMe6ob5pT
— Stu Cowan (@StuCowan1) April 1, 2024
Initially, I had high hopes for Anderson when he joined Montreal. However, his performance has been disappointing, and his hefty contract of $5.5 million annually for the next three seasons beyond this one is becoming a significant burden.
Having underperforming players on the team, particularly those earning substantial salaries, sets a negative example. Josh Anderson needs to realize that his current level of performance is unacceptable. – Steve Bégin
Fortunately, the salary cap is set to increase, which may alleviate some financial pressure.
While Armia, who has established himself in the league, was demoted to Laval, it raises questions why Anderson, who seems to still have the favor of Martin St-Louis, hasn’t faced the same consequence.
Many #GoHabsGo prospects have enjoyed an encouraging season, but few prospects around the league have improved as much as Florian Xhekaj.
Like his brother, he can win heavyweight tilts, but more importantly, he's scoring crucial goals for his team.⬇️https://t.co/npAk6tT6J9
— Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) April 1, 2024
– Patrick Roy’s former home sold for 40% less than expected. [JDM]
– Three-game suspension for Ryan Hartman.
#mnwild Ryan Hartman gets a 3-game suspension
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) April 1, 2024
– If Detroit doesn’t make the playoffs…
Derek Lalonde pourrait en être à ses derniers moments derrière le banc des Red Wings https://t.co/8qbTxmweK3
— TVA Sports (@TVASports) April 1, 2024