Alexander Zharovsky faces controversial NHL rule during first Canadiens skates in Montreal
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The Montreal Canadiens prospect was back on the ice in Brossard, continuing his offseason preparation.
And as we mentioned earlier, one detail caught the attention of some observers.
A peculiarity that can be explained by the context of the session.
Because it was not an official team practice.
These summer skates take place outside the club’s formal structure.
As a result, the NHL collective bargaining agreement applies different and strict rules in this situation.
The strict rules governing Alexander Zharovsky’s summer skating sessions
Offseason hockey operates under a clearly defined framework.
The collective bargaining agreement determines what does and does not qualify as an official team event.
Therefore, outside of permitted events such as development camp, the player would be required to pay for the ice time and the coach’s time himself.
Players are strictly prohibited from having their ice time paid for by the team… Quite something!
It is admittedly controversial and often criticized, but it is an important detail to understand.
You can see Andrew Zadarnowski’s statement here:
A prospect willing to pay his own way to improve inspires confidence.
And it is precisely this kind of commitment that could accelerate his path to the NHL club.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Alexander Zharovsky faces controversial NHL rule during first Canadiens skates in Montreal
Will Alexander Zharovsky crack the Canadiens’ lineup as early as the 2026-27 season?