Waiver surprise could force Kent Hughes into a tough Canadiens decision

Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens’ latest signing could be one of the biggest surprises at training camp.

It was a low-profile trade that could deliver more value than expected for the Canadiens.

But he brings qualities every NHL team wants.

He has a strong all-around toolbox.

Size, hockey sense and reliability at both ends of the ice. He’s exactly the type of player Martin St-Louis could love.

He moves the puck well, makes smart passes and uses his size effectively in his own zone.

He’s the type of defenceman who earns his spot through consistency.

There isn’t much flash, but he rarely makes mistakes.

Waiver pressure gives Maksymilian Szuber an edge

That could give his case a major boost.

That changes everything for Kent Hughes.

Assigning Szuber to Laval would expose him to waivers, giving another team the opportunity to claim him for nothing.

No general manager likes giving away an asset for free.

That reality could push the Canadiens to keep Szuber on the NHL roster rather than risk losing him.

That’s where the newcomer holds an advantage over prospects such as Reinbacher.

The Canadiens can send the Austrian defenceman to Laval without consequences, but they can’t do the same with Szuber.

Will he take advantage of the opportunity?