Alex Barré-Boulet Would Have Liked to Leave the Montreal Canadiens and Be Claimed by Another NHL Team

The Montreal Canadiens recently, to the surprise of many, placed forward Alex Barre-Boulet on waivers with the intent of assigning him to the Laval Rocket.

Fortunately for the organization, no one claimed him, and he was able to join the AHL team. With his experience, he will be able to help Laval's young squad in their quest for a playoff spot.

The disappointment seemed significant for the 27-year-old. Facing journalists waiting for him in the Rocket's locker room, he didn't hesitate to state that he sees himself as an NHL player, not an AHL one.

Alex Barre-Boulet would have liked to be claimed by another NHL team

See his exact statement.

I probably knew I wouldn't be claimed. I was keeping an eye on it [...] I would have liked to get another chance in the NHL, but now I'm here, and I'll do everything I can to get back with the Canadiens.

- Alex Barre-Boulet

As the seasoned veteran he is, having been demoted to the AHL multiple times throughout his career, Barre-Boulet understands the situation well. He will do everything to be a good teammate in Laval while proving to the team's management that he has NHL-caliber potential.

The season had barely started, but it's part of the game. Up top, they have young guys who need to play and gain experience, and I understand the decision... I knew there would probably be a rotation. There's no point in having 21- or 22-year-olds sitting in the stands not playing. I was disappointed, but I understood.

- Alex Barre-Boulet

Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent also had great things to say about his new player.

This was the first time I spoke with him, and he has an exemplary attitude. His goal is to return to the Canadiens and not give them a choice but to call him back. He's 27 years old, he's a man, not a child. He understands the situation, and so far, it's short and sweet, but I'm impressed.

- Pascal Vincent

Barre-Boulet will have big responsibilities with the Rocket early in the season. He has been placed on a line with Brandon Gignac and Joshua Roy.

It will be interesting to see how he performs on Friday night when the Rocket plays its home opener against the Syracuse Crunch, Barre-Boulet's former team.

Kent Hughes made a similar decision with Joel Armia last season, so another decision regarding Barre-Boulet might not be out of the question if he plays well.