As we reported a few days ago, Kent Hughes is active in the transaction market. According to information fromElliotte Friedmanhe would be looking for a top-4 defender and a depth forward with character to help the team’s robustness.
With 47 goals allowed in 11 games and a glaring lack of robustness, especially when Arber Xhekaj is not in alignment, it must be admitted that it would not do any harm.
That said, the Canadiens’ CEO also mentioned that he is not going to sacrifice the long term to plug holes here and there in the middle of a storm. The focus remains on the future of the team, which is not out of its reconstruction.
So it makes sense that if Hughes makes a trade(s) this year, it’s a safe bet he’ll trade players who are no longer part of the plan going forward.
Here are three players who could be of interest to teams who want to look for depth for the playoffs, but who are probably no longer part of the future in Montreal.
Christian Dvorak
He simply doesn’t do enough to justify a salary of 4.35 million per season. His contract expires next summer, so he will be an available player at the trade deadline. He could help a team aspiring to a 4th line. He is good in the faceoff circle and he is responsible defensively. Owen Beck will replace him next season if his development continues to go as well.
Joel Armia
It’s a bit the same story for Armia. The Finn brings more offense than Dvorak, but it would be very surprising if Hughes offers him a new contract at the end of the season. The 3.4 million he earns per season since 2021 will be used elsewhere. Armia had been very solid in the 2021 playoffs and he could be of interest to a team that needs depth on the wings.
David Savard
We like Savard, he brings a lot of experience and calm in defense, but he is also the CH player who risks being the most popular on the exchange market. We will first have to decide if we are ready to offer him a new contract, otherwise he will certainly be a great catch for an aspiring team next spring.
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