While Kent Hughes has already begun his personnel moves in preparation for next season, we have learned that two players from La Belle Province will be free as a bird in a few days' time. First, Maxime Comtois will be a compensated independent player, but since the Ducks refused to make him a qualifying offer, his status will become unrestricted and he will be able to sign with the team of his choice. Although he's a Quebecer and coming to Montreal would be intriguing, there isn't really room for him though, especially since Hughes already has newcomer Alex Newhook to sign and Denis Gurianov, should he decide to offer him a contract. Julien Gauthier will also be free as a bird. The 6'4, 224-lb. colossus could interest Kent Hughes, but he'd be more of a depth player. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/nhlupdate/status/1673719755730190337'> </a></blockquote></div>