Overview
- Gallagher told reporters Monday that “it’s pretty clear” he will be moving on after 14 seasons in Montreal, breaking down during an emotional exit interview.
- He remains under contract for one more season with a $6.5 million cap hit and a modified no-movement clause that gives him a six-team no-trade list.
- Playing time and production fell sharply in 2025–26 as he averaged a career-low roughly 12:21 minutes per game and recorded seven goals and 23 points in 77 games, and he was a healthy scratch for most of the playoffs, appearing in three games.
- The Canadiens face three main roster paths this summer — trade, buyout, or keeping him under contract and limiting his role — with analysts noting a buyout would save Montreal about $2.67 million against next season’s cap while spreading smaller charges into 2027–28.
- Multiple outlets identify the Vancouver Canucks as a likely landing spot and Gallagher called Vancouver a “great place,” though he said he will discuss options with his wife and agent before deciding.