The NHL free agency period is always filled with intrigue, but this year, one storyline is capturing the attention of fans and insiders across Quebec and beyond. As teams scramble to secure the best talent available, the spotlight has landed squarely on Anthony Beauvillier—a skilled forward with deep local roots and a proven playoff pedigree. After a strong finish with the Washington Capitals and an impressive postseason showing, Beauvillier now finds himself at the center of speculation about where he’ll play next.

Rumors have swirled for weeks, but recent comments from Beauvillier himself have added even more fuel to the fire, hinting at a possible homecoming with the Montreal Canadiens. With his openness to joining the Habs—provided the deal is right—the excitement among Montreal fans is palpable. This potential signing not only offers a chance to bring a talented Quebecois star back to his home province, but it also presents an opportunity for the organization to address a decision from nearly a decade ago. As the free agency frenzy unfolds, all eyes will be on the Canadiens’ front office to see if they make a move that could reshape their roster and ignite the fanbase.

Apr 27, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Washington Capitals left wing Anthony Beauvillier (72) plays the puck against Montreal Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (48) during the second period in game four of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Among the interesting free agents who will be available today is Quebec-born forward Anthony Beauvillier.

Acquired by the Washington Capitals from the Pittsburgh Penguins at the trade deadline this past March, he finished the season well with the team from the U.S. capital and had a solid playoff run, tallying six points in 10 games.

As reported by the site DansLesCoulisses, Beauvillier recently appeared on Jean-Charles Lajoie’s show on TVA Sports and touched on several topics.

Among them was the possibility of him wearing a Montreal Canadiens jersey next season, and he expressed strong openness to signing a deal with the Habs.

Anthony Beauvillier would accept a contract with the Montreal Canadiens if the deal makes sense for him

Here’s what he said more specifically:

“I want to know the number of years, I want to know how much, but yes, for sure, if the phone rings and it’s the Canadiens, I will seriously consider it.”

– Anthony Beauvillier

Although he admitted he’s also hoping to receive a contract offer from the Washington Capitals, the idea of seeing Anthony Beauvillier with the Canadiens would somewhat make up for a past mistake by the organization.

At the 2015 NHL Draft, the Canadiens selected defenseman Noah Juulsen 26th overall while the Quebec forward was still available.

The Islanders ended up selecting him two picks later.

And you-do you think it would be a good idea for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens to sign Anthony Beauvillier today?

It’ll be one of the storylines to watch closely.