Alarming! Habs will now have to shell out a big sum to recruit James van Riemsdyk since Boston Bruins has just raised the asking price significantly following the expression of fresh interest from two major teams. The issue now stands: Is he really worth the increased cost?

It makes sense to sign a veteran as an insurance policy. and James van Riemsdyk visiting the area was suggested by Marc-Olivier Beaudoin. Given that the 35-year-old veteran scored 38 points and scored 11 goals for the Bruins last season, you would assume he wouldn’t accept a lucrative contract.

Given his age and the fact that the Habs have several forwards deserving of the sixth slot in the top-6, I don’t see him playing a top-6 role, but he is a player who may be used as a support player. Then, in the worst situation, assist with the first two threes.

It might not be a bad idea to extend an invitation to training camp to him, at the absolute least.

Although the American, at 35, might not want to relocate his family either, he would still need to be open to accepting such an offer, and for the Habs, it wouldn’t be a bad thing. JVR might be very helpful early in the season, especially since the forward prospects for the Habs aren’t yet ready to graduate (in contrast to those on the blue line, for example).

Additionally, if he performs well in the first few weeks of the season, the club will be able to trade him, particularly if they wish to graduate a player who is having a fantastic debut in Laval. Thus, it’s a concept to watch, but if the Habs are looking for an experienced player to support their front group.