Montreal became interested in the NHL star with over 30 goals - this fact complicated the negotiations

Forward Anthony Mantha, who had the best season of his NHL career last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, is still on the free agent market. There is interest in him, but negotiations have their complications.

BPM Sports Radio’s Marc-Olivier Beaudoin reports that the Montreal Canadiens have shown interest in Mantha. However, negotiations are currently at a standstill, as the Canadiens would like to sign Mantha to a short-term deal, while Mantha himself is aiming for a longer-term contract.

– The chances of Mantha signing a deal with Montreal are quite slim. But since we know that things can change quickly in hockey, it remains a small possibility. We will monitor the situation, Beaudoin reports on X.

Mantha, 31, played one season with the Penguins and recorded 64 points in 81 regular season games with 33 goals and 31 assists. He surpassed the 30-goal and 60-point marks for the first time in his NHL career. Mantha’s contract value last season was $2.5 million.

In the NHL, Mantha has previously represented the Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals, Vegas Golden Knights, and Calgary Flames. He has played 588 regular season games (179+188=367) and 20 playoff games (0+7).