The NHL offseason is always filled with swirling rumors, surprise moves, and the kind of speculation that keeps fans glued to every update. This year, the spotlight shines brighter than ever on a Quebec-born star whose future is suddenly wide open.

The Montreal Canadiens, a franchise with deep roots and passionate supporters, now find themselves at the center of one of the league’s most intriguing storylines. With the New York Rangers officially putting Alexis Lafrenière on the trade market, the possibilities for a seismic shift are real—and the hockey world is buzzing with anticipation.

For months, whispers about Lafrenière’s availability have circulated, but confirmation from multiple sources has now set the stage for high-stakes negotiations. The Rangers are clearly open to reshaping their roster, and only a select few players are considered untouchable. As the Canadiens weigh their options, the question isn’t just whether they can make a deal, but whether they truly want to bring Lafrenière home. With his impressive pedigree and undeniable talent, the decision could have lasting effects on both franchises. As trade talks heat up, all eyes are on Montreal and New York, waiting to see if a blockbuster move is on the horizon.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We have an update regarding Quebec-born forward Alexis Lafrenière and the New York Rangers.

The rumor had been circulating for a while, but it’s now officially confirmed: Lafrenière is available for a trade.

Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens can therefore officially move forward in the process of acquiring him, if that’s what they want to do.

The Rangers are listening to offers for all their players, except Adam Fox, Artemi Panarin, and Igor Shesterkin: Alexis Lafrenière officially confirmed as available

So yes, they are indeed listening to offers for Lafrenière.

“I heard this at the NHL Combine:

– The Rangers are among a handful of teams (BUF, UTA, SEA) looking to reshape their roster soon.

– Shesterkin, Fox, and Panarin are reportedly the only untouchables on the trade market.

– Keep an eye on Vladislav Gavrikov and the Rangers if Chris Drury can clear some cap space.”

– Arthur Staple

The Rangers clearly aren’t afraid of making big trades. They’re listening to offers for virtually all of their players (including Lafrenière) and want to free up salary cap space.

It seems obvious that with the right offer, Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens could officially acquire Alexis Lafrenière-but the real question is..

Do they actually want him?

We’ll get the answer in the coming weeks.

Alexis Lafrenière, 23 years old, was the 1st overall pick in 2020 and recorded 45 points in 82 games this season, after putting up 57 points last season.

K’Andre Miller, 25 years old, was the 22nd overall pick in 2018 (1st round) and tallied 27 points in 74 games this season, after notching 30 and 43 points in the two previous seasons.

He’s a 6-foot-5, 210-pound defenseman and could also be a very interesting option for the Canadiens.