Photo credit: Sportsnet on YouTube

Despite never playing in the NHL, Filip Mesar has now been placed on the trade block by the Montreal Canadiens following a pattern of behavioral issues.

The Montreal Canadiens have had trouble making it to the playoffs over the last few years, earning them better odds in the past few NHL Drafts. This seemed considerably helpful in 2022 when they grabbed childhood friends Juraj Slafkovsky 1st overall, and Filip Mesar at 26.

“Juraj Slafkovsky and Filip Mesar went from being childhood friends to both being drafted by the @CanadiensMTL. 🥺 #NHLDraft”

However, Mesar did not seem to make many other friends with the team. After two years under the team’s ownership, the 20-year-old forward has not made a single NHL appearance. Now, Kent Hughes has placed him on the trade block, attempting to make a deal for Rutger McGroarty from the Winnipeg Jets.

“According to Slovak media, the Habs have apparently offered Filip Mesar, a 2025 1st round pick & either Justin Barron or Jordan Harris to the Winnipeg Jets for Rutger McGroarty 👀”

The reason, though, has less to do with his OHL performance, and more with irreconcilable behavioral issues. Reports indicate that he publicly criticized teammates and refused to show up for the Canadiens’ development camp, eliciting Montreal leadership’s response.

“Mešár’s behavior was also questioned. In addition to publicly criticizing his Ok teammates, he turned down Kent Hughes’ invitation to attend the Canadiens’ development camp. This refusal was seen as a lack of professionalism and dedication.”

With the young forward unable to cooperate and badgering teammates, it is no surprise Montreal would want to get rid of this player. Hopefully, whatever the aftermath of their disagreements, Filip Mesar will get a chance to do what he was meant to do: play in the NHL.