The hockey world is buzzing with excitement—and a fair share of disbelief—after a daring trade proposal surfaced that could send Jonathan Huberdeau, one of the NHL’s most dynamic playmakers, from the Calgary Flames to the Montreal Canadiens.

While it may seem like a blockbuster move straight out of a fan’s wildest dreams, this bold idea has quickly gained traction among insiders and fans alike, especially considering the Canadiens’ recent string of savvy acquisitions and the steady, ambitious vision of general manager Kent Hughes.

Imagine Huberdeau, a proven offensive force and former 100-point scorer, donning the bleu-blanc-rouge and joining Montreal’s evolving core. What could his arrival mean for a team already on the rise, energized by youth, and determined to reclaim its place among hockey’s elite?

And just as importantly, what would the Flames gain—or lose—in a trade of this magnitude? With both franchises at pivotal points in their respective rebuilds, the ripple effects of such a deal could reshape the trajectory of each team for years to come.

As speculation swirls and possibilities unfold, one thing is certain: if this trade becomes reality, it could mark a turning point for the Canadiens and set the stage for an electrifying new chapter in Montreal hockey.

Nov 5, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Oliver Kapanen (91) plays the puck and Calgary Flames forward Jonathan Huberdeau (10) defends during the second period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Kent Hughes has had a busy summer, and the Montreal Canadiens’ general manager has improved his team with the acquisitions of Noah Dobson and Zachary Bolduc.

However, Hughes’ shopping might not be over, and here we have a trade suggestion with the Calgary Flames that’s bound to spark some discussion.

According to journalist Cole Shelton, who works for Heavy and also for CBS Sports, he sees a huge move as a real possibility for the Canadiens with the following proposal:

To Montreal:

– Jonathan Huberdeau

To Calgary:

– Josh Anderson
– Arber Xhekaj
– Owen Beck
– 2026 second-round pick

Let’s just say it’s a bold proposal, and while it’s very unlikely to happen, it’s still worth analyzing the possibility.

A Trade Proposal from Cole Shelton Sending Jonathan Huberdeau to the Montreal Canadiens

After a 115-point season in 2021-22 with the Florida Panthers, Huberdeau has had three fairly disappointing years in terms of point production with the Flames. Still, he managed to score 28 goals last season (2024-25), the second-highest total of his career.

A change of scenery could very well help him, but he’s entering the third year of his contract, which carries an annual salary of $10.5 million through 2031.

For some, the price would be far too steep, but by including Anderson, Kent Hughes would also manage to offload the final two years of the number 17’s deal, helping reduce the Canadiens’ cap hit by $5.5 million.

As for Xhekaj and Beck, the Canadiens’ depth on defense and among young forwards gives the organization some wiggle room.. and the potential arrival of Jonathan Huberdeau could address the team’s need for a forward capable of playing a key role in 2025-26.

What do you think?