The Canadiens’ Quest for a Top-Six Forward
The Montreal Canadiens are on the hunt for a top-six forward, ideally a second-line center, to bolster their lineup. This need is not new, and the team has already shown a willingness to use their defensive depth as trade bait. Last year, the Canadiens sent Jordan Harris to the Columbus Blue Jackets for right winger Patrik Laine, and in July, they traded Logan Mailloux to the St. Louis Blues for right winger Zack Bolduc. These moves suggest that the team is serious about strengthening their forward corps, even if it means parting with promising defensive talent.
Exploring the Trade Market
On Tuesday, R.G. Org’s Marco D’Amico reported that the Canadiens could once again turn to their blueline depth if a high-end top-six forward became available. He noted that Kaiden Guhle, a 23-year-old defenseman recovering from surgery to repair a torn adductor muscle, has drawn interest from some Western Conference teams over the past two off-seasons. Despite his injury history, D’Amico emphasized that the Canadiens have no interest in trading Guhle. He is in the first season of a five-year contract with an average annual value of $5.5 million, and the team values his mobility and physical defensive game.
Potential Trade Candidates
If the Canadiens do decide to move a defenseman for a top-six forward, D’Amico speculated that it could be Arber Xhekaj, Jayden Struble, or Adam Engstrom, as their blueline depth continues to improve. He didn’t rule out the possibility of Alexandre Carrier becoming a trade candidate once the promising David Reinbacher is ready to join the Canadiens’ lineup. Given the team’s recent trade history, it wouldn’t be surprising if they peddle another blueliner to add a forward. However, the current trade market lacks high-caliber forwards, suggesting that the March 6 trade deadline might be their best opportunity to make a significant move.
The Ottawa Senators’ Trade Appetite
Montreal isn’t the only Canadian team looking to make a move at this early stage of the season. The Ottawa Senators have been exploring the trade market since mid-November. On November 28, Senators beat writer Julian McKenzie of The Athletic noted a report by TSN’s Darren Dreger indicating that GM Steve Staios was seeking a defenseman and a forward. Dreger, however, felt that Staios didn’t intend to engage in “big-game hunting” in the trade market. He also dismissed rumors suggesting that top prospect Carter Yakemchuk could become a trade chip, stating, “Not going to happen.”
Struggles with Alex Formenton
Meanwhile, the Senators faced a challenge with unsigned left winger Alex Formenton. The 26-year-old was ineligible to play in the NHL this season after the team failed to find a suitable trade partner before the December 1 signing deadline for restricted free agents. This situation underscores the challenges teams face in the trade market and highlights the importance of managing player contracts and deadlines effectively.
Looking Ahead to the Trade Deadline
As the season progresses, both the Canadiens and the Senators will need to stay vigilant and strategic in their pursuit of trade opportunities. The March 6 trade deadline will likely be a pivotal moment for both teams, as it could provide the best chance to acquire the talent they need to strengthen their rosters. Whether through defensive trades or other creative deals, the coming months will be crucial for Montreal and Ottawa as they aim to secure the players that can help them achieve their respective goals.
