Canadiens Sign Two 2001 Picks

By Dan Linn

The Montreal Canadiens have signed two prospects from the 2001 draft, forward Duncan Milroy and defenseman Andrew Archer. 

Duncan Milroy, RW, was signed out of the Kootenay Ice in the WHL.  Taken in the 2nd round, 37th overall in 2001, GM Andre Savard made Milroy his 3rd pick in a deep draft.  After scoring 78 points this season, and 257 points over his last three seasons in the WHL, it’s not a big surprise that management wanted to get him inked to play in Hamilton next season.  Milroy showed great strides in the WHL playoff and Memorial Cup run, getting 37 points in only 21 games.  Milroy was often the go-to guy in the playoffs, and a major factor in the team winning the WHL championship, and the Memorial Cup for the top team in the entire CHL.  Milroy will need to add some strength and come into camp ready to play hard, as there should be a logjam at the right wing position in Hamilton next season.   The deal was for three years, no terms disclosed as of yet.

Andrew Archer, RD, was signed out of the Guelph Storm of the OHL.  Taken in the 7th round, 203rd overall, Andre Savard made Archer his 7th pick and a possible late round gem.  Standing at 6’4, 212 lbs, this stay at home defensemen was nominated for best defensive defensemen in the OHL, and was Guelph’s most improved player in 2000-01.  Archer was the Captain of his team this year, and will be a good addition to the Hamilton Bulldogs next season. 

Other Potential Signees

The only player not signed from the ’01 draft class that needs to be signed before the June 1st reentry date is Eric Himelfarb, C. If he is not signed before 3pm EST on June 1st, he will reenter the draft.  The Habs could redraft him if they were interested in keeping his rights.

There are still some prospects who could be signed to play in Hamilton next season. 

Alex Perezhogin, RW, a European taken in the 2001 draft, is in the plans to be signed, but no word if or when yet. 

Jonathan Ferland, RW, a pick from the 2002 draft now playing in the QMJHL, could be signed to play in Hamilton to add some size and physical play. 

Leaving the organization is Eric Landry, C. After being sent to Utah of the AHL this year on loan, Eric Landry will not return to the Canadiens organization. Landry will play in Switzerland next year, where he will join up with ex-Hab Andre Bashkirov.