Martin St. Louis Stuns NHL by Rejecting $7M Offers, Re-Signs with Canadiens Through 2028
MONTREAL โ April 17, 2025
In a move that has left the NHL world buzzing, Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis has turned down massive contract offers from both the Boston Bruins and the Calgary Flames, choosing instead to remain with the team he once starred for on the ice. St. Louis has officially signed a three-year contract extension with the Canadiens, keeping him behind the bench through the 2027-2028 season.
According to sources close to the situation, both Boston and Calgary offered St. Louis deals worth upwards of $7 million per seasonโan eye-popping figure that would have made him one of the highest-paid coaches in NHL history. But in a statement of loyalty and belief in the long-term vision of the Canadiens, St. Louis chose to stay in Montreal, stunning many in the hockey world.
โThis is where my heart is,โ St. Louis said following the announcement. โMontreal gave me my start as a head coach and believed in me when I was still learning on the job. I believe in our team, our direction, and Iโm proud to keep building something special here.โ
St. Louis, a Hall of Famer and one of the most respected figures in the game, took over as head coach of the Canadiens in 2022 with no prior NHL coaching experience. Since then, heโs helped spark a cultural transformation in Montrealโinstilling a fast-paced, energetic style of play and helping guide the teamโs rebuild with a steady, inspiring hand.
Though the Canadiens are still developing into a contender, thereโs a clear sense of progress under St. Louisโ leadership. Young stars like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Juraj Slafkovskรฝ have blossomed, and the team has shown signs of becoming a force in the Eastern Conference once again.
Turning down offers from two high-profile franchisesโespecially the Bruins, one of Montrealโs most storied rivalsโspeaks volumes about St. Louisโ commitment to the Canadiens and his belief in their future.
With this extension, Montreal fans can rest easy knowing their bench boss isnโt going anywhere. Martin St. Louis is staying in la belle province, focused on returning the Habs to their former gloryโone step, and one season, at a time.