In his press briefing, a few hours after the formalization of the transaction which made Michael Matheson pass to the Canadian, the general manager Kent Hughes had mentioned that the defender had perhaps been under additional pressure by signing a pact at 23 years old. eight years and $39 million.

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Hughes knew what he was talking about. At the time, he was the Montrealer's agent.

Learning

Matheson does not know if it was really this contract that was the instigator of these difficult times he experienced with the Panthers.

In 2018-2019, he notably posted a sad differential of -24.

He admits, however, that his last seasons in Florida have been tough.

“I went through some tough times [after signing]. It wasn't easy," the defender admitted on Monday.

“But,” he continued, “they led me to where I am today. So I think it was a great learning experience. Going through such moments is important for any player, if you are able to come out of it stronger and use it to your advantage. »

From agent to boss

Today, Hughes is no longer his agent, but his boss.

"Our relationship was always very good when he was my agent," he explained. We talked when he was thinking of taking the job in Montreal, and I was really excited when he accepted.

“Of course now our relationship will be more professional. But it's good for me to have somebody here that I know that can help me. »