Canadiens passed on 2023 Gauthier swap for No. 5 pick

Gauthier scored 41 goals in 76 games last season.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 311 min read

What happened: Charlie O'Connor first detailed the proposed one-for-one deal in January 2024, after Gauthier declined to sign with Philadelphia. The Canadiens retained the selection and used it on David Reinbacher.

Why it matters: The decision carries fresh weight with Gauthier unsigned entering the 2026-27 offseason. He reportedly rejected a four-year offer worth $13 million annually, sharpening the contrast between retaining a premium pick and paying for established scoring.

By the numbers: Gauthier produced 41 goals and 69 points across 76 games in 2025-26. The reported contract offer totaled $52 million over four years.

What to watch: Gauthier's contract negotiations and Reinbacher's 2026-27 role will continue shaping assessments of Montreal's decision.

Sources

Montreal Hockey Fanatics 2026-08-31T02:49:30.234516+00:00

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