The NHL trade rumor mill is spinning at full speed, and this time, it’s centered squarely on the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders. With the recent arrival of Mathieu Darche as the Islanders’ general manager and the Canadiens’ ongoing quest to accelerate their rebuild, speculation is reaching a fever pitch. Hockey insiders are abuzz following a bold trade proposal from Arpon Basu—one that could reshape the future of both franchises and send shockwaves throughout the league.

As the Islanders potentially pivot toward a new era under Darche, armed with the coveted first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, the possibility of dramatic roster changes looms large. The Canadiens, meanwhile, are on the hunt for established talent to complement their promising young core, making them a prime candidate to pounce if a superstar becomes available. With Bo Horvat’s name suddenly swirling in trade rumors, fans and analysts alike are left wondering if Montreal’s front office, led by Kent Hughes, will seize this rare opportunity.

This proposed blockbuster deal has ignited passionate debate across the hockey world, raising questions about risk, reward, and the future direction of two storied franchises.

Mar 30, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; New York Islanders center Bo Horvat (14) looks on against the Carolina Hurricanes during the second period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Arpon Basu has just proposed the first trade offer involving the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders since Mathieu Darche was hired.

Could Darche and Kent Hughes actually come to an agreement quickly?

One thing’s for sure, many observers believe Darche was brought to Long Island to initiate a true rebuild, especially since he arrives with the 1st overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft in hand.

If that turns out to be the case and they do rebuild, it’s clear that names like Bo Horvat could quickly hit the trade market, and that could present an interesting opportunity for the Montreal Canadiens.

A Trade Offer From Arpon Basu Involving the Montreal Canadiens and Mathieu Darche’s Islanders

Here’s the offer in question:

To the Canadiens: Bo Horvat

To the Islanders: Owen Beck, Logan Mailloux, 2025 First-Round Pick (16th overall)

If you were in Kent Hughes’ shoes, would you accept this offer?

We highly recommend checking out their full episode, but this definitely sparks an interesting discussion.

At 30 years old, Horvat is a 6-foot-1, 215-pound center who was selected 9th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in 2013.

He recorded 57 points in 81 games this season with the Islanders, including 28 goals, after putting up 68 points in 81 games the previous season (33 goals).

Horvat is signed through 2031 at 8.5 million per year.