Samuel Blais Joins the Ottawa Senators: A Fresh Start in the NHL

In a move that has sparked significant conversation across the hockey world, Samuel Blais has officially signed a two-season contract with the Ottawa Senators. For the Montmagny native, this isn’t just a change of jersey—it’s a critical opportunity to redefine his career and prove his value on the big stage.

The Struggle in Montreal: A Tale of Missed Opportunities

Blais’ tenure with the Montreal Canadiens was marked by inconsistency and frustration. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, the forward found himself in a precarious position within the organization. From being placed on waivers to spending a significant portion of the season with the Laval Rocket in the AHL, the road was far from smooth.

The narrative surrounding Blais became a point of debate among fans and analysts. While his performance in the minors was undeniable—often proving he was “too good” for the AHL—the jump back to the NHL remained elusive. As reported by TVA Sports, the competition in Montreal was fierce, with players like Alexandre Texier and Joe Veleno, along with the veteran presence of Brendan Gallagher, limiting his ice time.

A Point of Contention: The “Black Aces” Snub

One of the most telling moments of Blais’ time with the Habs occurred during the 2026 playoffs. While the organization brought in several “black aces” (reserve players) such as Reinbacher and Xhekaj, Blais was left out of the fold even after the Rocket were eliminated. This lack of trust served as a catalyst for his departure, leaving the player feeling undervalued.

“Last year, I think I proved to myself that I am still capable of playing in the National League. I had some good moments in Montreal, sometimes playing better than others, but they still demoted me,” Blais shared in an interview with TVA Gatineau.

The Road Ahead: Proving Worth in Ottawa

Now, the focus shifts to the Ontario capital. Blais enters the Ottawa Senators’ training camp with a clear mission: carve out a permanent spot in the lineup. The challenge is significant, but the motivation is higher than ever. For Blais, the Senators represent a clean slate where his grit and skill can be fully utilized without the baggage of previous organizational decisions.

What Blais Brings to the Senators:

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• NHL Experience: A seasoned player who knows the pace of the league.

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• Versatility: Capable of playing various roles in the offensive zone.

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• Determination: A hunger to prove critics and former management wrong.

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Will Samuel Blais successfully transition into a key role for the Sens, or will the injury struggles of recent years continue to hinder his progress? Hockey fans across Canada will be watching closely as the Ottawa Senators prepare for the upcoming season.