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Canadiens’ GM Kent Hughes May Have more Moves Up His Sleeve This Offseason
Despite the bulk of NHL offseason activity concluding in june and July, a significant transaction before training camp remains a distinct possibility for the Montreal Canadiens. While most teams have finalized their rosters, the history of General Manager Kent Hughes suggests further moves are likely, particularly given his penchant too make deals throughout August, a pattern that has Canadiens fans cautiously optimistic. On August 18,2022,the team acquired Sean Monahan and a frist-round pick in 2025 in exchange for future considerations. A year later, on August 6, 2023, a more complex trade brought in Nathan Légaré, Casey DeSmith, Jeff Petry, and a second-round pick in 2025, while sending out Rem Pitlick and Mike Hoffman. Notably, the Pittsburgh Penguins retained salary in that deal. Further maneuvering followed on August 15,2023,with Gustav Lindstrom and a fourth-round pick in 2025 arriving in exchange for Jeff Petry,with the Canadiens retaining cash to facilitate the trade. Most recently, on August 19, 2024, Patrik Laine and a second-round pick in 2026 were acquired for Jordan Harris.
This recent history fuels speculation that the Canadiens could still be in the market for players like Jordan Kyrou or restricted free agent Mason mctavish. As one analyst noted, “If the past is a guarantee of the future, it’s a possibility on the table, at least.”
Though,the current circumstances differ from those of the past three years. From 2022 to 2024, the Canadiens were not actively contending for a playoff spot, affording them greater flexibility in negotiations. This year, the team’s financial situation is more constrained, limiting their ability to absorb unfavorable contracts. “The Canadiens can’t really afford to take on a contract out of Christian charity,” a senior official stated.
Adding another layer of intrigue, the possibility of Carey Price’s contract being moved in September looms large. Speculation has centered around potential destinations like the San Jose Sharks or the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Here’s a look at Jeff Petry’s move to the Detroit Red Wings: https://twitter.com/MLBLife/status/1691844999999983616
Other hockey news surfaced this week, including Jack Roslovic remaining unsigned: https://twitter.com/BarDown/status/1691844999999983616
And a glimpse of Trevor Zegras, Brady Tkachuk, and Matt Rempe training together: https://twitter.com/BarDown/status/1691844999999983616
Beyond hockey, a report highlighted the Boston Red Sox as a significant threat: https://twitter.com/passion_mlb/status/1691844999999983616. Additionally, coverage extended to other sports, including a spotlight on victoria mboko, a rising star in Canadiens tennis, and a discussion on baseball with colleague Félix Forget: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ywvbo4lammo.
While the Canadiens’ front office faces new constraints, the precedent set by Kent Hughes suggests that the team is not finished making moves this offseason, leaving fans to wonder what surprises may still be in store.
