Brett Lernout

Lernout took a step back in 2017-18, dropping from 16 points to eight, and a plus-5 to minus-16, over 56 games for AHL Laval. That wasn't all on Lernout as Laval was not a good team and he was being asked to play on the top pair, but his game isn't at that level yet. There could be a developmental problem within the organization, which overhauled its defensive coaching staff at both the parent club and AHL levels this offseason. Lernout had an 18-game stint in Montreal, doling out 56 hits in 16:44 minutes of ice time per game. He has a hard shot but is not known for his offense. There are three or four spots available on the Habs' blue line but Lernout will need a fantastic camp to claim one.