Canadiens Sign Xavier Simoneau To Well-Deserved ELC

The Montreal Canadiens announced they had signed prospect Xavier Simoneau to a two-year entry-level contract.

The 21-year-old has been a revelation for the Laval Rocket this season, jumping up from a fourth-line role to a prime spot in their top six.

Initially drafted in the 6th round of the 2021 NHL Draft, the Canadiens signed Simoneau to a one-year, AHL deal with the Laval Rocket for the youngster to prove himself at the pro level.

We can now say that Xavier Simoneau passed the test with flying colours.

In 44 games with the Rocket so far this season, the diminutive forward has put up five goals and 23 assists for 28 points.

The entry-level contract, which is set to begin as of the 2023-2024 season and holds a yearly salary of $775,000, is a just reward for Simoneau’s developmental curve.

After a strong overage season in the QMJHL, Simoneau spent the summer working hard in Brossard with Director of Development, Adam Nicholas, and teammate William Trudeau, to refine his skills.

That work paid off, as Simoneau was a standout player for the Canadiens at both the Prospect Challenge and training camp.

Following the same career path as Rafaël Harvey-Pinard, Simoneau will also become the full property of the Montreal Canadiens moving forward.

That means that, unlike this season, if the Canadiens ever run into injury trouble next season, Simoneau could get a deserved call-up to the big club.

It will be interesting to see if Simoneau can take the next step offensively as of next season and lead the Rocket in scoring, as the Canadiens’ farm team is set for some considerable reinforcement next season.

With the likes of Joshua Roy, Riley Kidney, Emil Heineman, Logan Mailloux and more joining the ranks, Simoneau’s example of hard work and leadership will be invaluable to setting up the right landing pad for all these youngsters taking their first steps into pro hockey.