Houle gets extension

[Willie Dog]

I guess they like what he's doing... Let's hope Houle doesn't become a Foule with the kids

www.nhl.com/canadiens/news/rocket-sign-jean-francois-houle-to-multi-year-extension-may-2024

[seventeen]

Normally, I would say, trust to HuGo's judgment but I have reservations here. Not that I'm questioning the judgment call, but because of the relative delay in announcing this 'extension' I wonder if HuGo even know themselves whether it's the right decision or not. Or maybe they're making this move because the right replacement isn't available, or maybe Houle is the least of several weevils. I'd sure like to know where Houle is on their satisfaction scale. NWT had reservations about him a couple of years ago because he played vets ahead of the kids. I realize it's a balancing act, but these last couple of Rocket teams didn't always have the best roster, so why not develop the kids? Are you going to win an extra game by playing vets? It's in a coach's nature to a) win and b) believe that veterans, like Josh Anderson, give you the best chance to win (I had to sneak that in).

Also, the news release states its a multi year extension. To me that means more than 1. It could mean 2 years. I hope that's all it is. At least if they have to let him go half way through this coming season, it won't cost too much. (Is my bias showing?). Not that I should care what it costs Geoff. It's his money, not mine.

[jkr]

This site is reporting that it's a 3 year deal. Apparently the Habs are happy with the way players that are recalled (or sent down and then recalled) seem ready & prepared to play with the big club.

www.habsworld.net/2024/05/habs-reportedly-agree-to-contract-extension-with-laval-head-coach-j-f-houle/

[folatre]

I do not watch enough of their games to say much about Houle in terms of his systems or the degree of preparedness/compete his troops exhibit on a nightly basis. But he should have a talented group this season and, assuming Dobes can build on his first pro season, the Rocket needs to be a winning team. So, yes, developing the kids so they are ready to be Habs is the main thing, but how about both developing the kids and getting them accustomed to a winning culture?

I see that Davidson got a two-year NHL contract. He should be a nice cog down there the next couple of seasons since he is a gritty center who just
seems like a glue guy.