The Montreal Canadiens have delivered a wave of excitement to their fanbase with the announcement of two fresh signings, signaling a busy and ambitious offseason for the organization. As the team looks to build depth and experience ahead of the upcoming campaign, general manager Kent Hughes has secured the services of two intriguing free agents—one of whom is a familiar face beloved by many in Montreal.

The official press release confirmed the return of Alex Belzile, a hardworking forward who previously wore the Rocket’s “C” and earned the respect of teammates and fans alike. Alongside Belzile, the Canadiens have also added defenseman Nate Clurman, a promising blueliner eager to make his mark in the organization.

With these moves, the Canadiens are not just reinforcing their lineup but also injecting a blend of leadership, local pride, and fresh energy into the roster. As anticipation builds for the season ahead, supporters are left to wonder how these new additions will shape the team’s fortunes and what surprises may still be in store.

Mar 30, 2023; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Alex Belzile (60) plays the puck against the Florida Panthers during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We have great news to share with Montreal Canadiens fans.

Kent Hughes and the Canadiens have just announced two new acquisitions – both free agent signings – including a name already well known in Montreal.

The Montreal Canadiens Announce Two New Signings

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See the official last-minute press release from the Canadiens.

“Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes announced on Tuesday that the team has agreed to terms on one-year, two-way contracts with forward Alex Belzile and defenseman Nate Clurman.

This signing marks a return to the Canadiens organization for Belzile, who played for the Rocket from 2018 to 2023. Belzile also served as Rocket captain from 2021 to 2023. In 44 NHL games with the Canadiens, he scored six goals and nine assists while serving 17 penalty minutes.”

– Montreal Canadiens

Belzile is back!

33-year-old Alex Belzile is a 6-foot, 205-pound Quebec-born forward who has recorded 15 points in 44 career NHL games.

This season, he tallied 56 points in 66 games, including 19 goals, in the American Hockey League with the New York Rangers’ affiliate.

27-year-old Nathan Clurman is a 6-foot-2, 193-pound right-handed defenseman who was drafted by the Colorado Avalanche in 2016.

He recorded 11 points in 31 games this season in the AHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins’ affiliate.

We’d like to welcome both players to the Canadiens organization-and welcome home Alex Belzile.

It will be interesting to see what role he plays this fall, but one thing is certain, a solid veteran is joining the organization.

More details to follow.