A single trade can change the course of a franchise—and right now, Montreal Canadiens fans are beginning to see just how true that can be. As the new NHL season unfolds, two young players find themselves at the heart of a rapidly developing story: Zachary Bolduc and Logan Mailloux. Both were involved in a headline-making deal orchestrated by Kent Hughes, but their paths since then couldn’t be more different.

While one is making waves in Montreal with a dazzling start, the other faces unexpected challenges in St. Louis. The numbers, the ice time, and the early reactions from fans and analysts all seem to point in a surprising direction. But what really happened in those first few games? Is this trade already tilting heavily toward the Canadiens, or is it too soon for bold declarations?

Behind the statistics and social media debates lies a deeper narrative about potential, pressure, and the unpredictable nature of hockey trades. Could Kent Hughes have pulled off another masterstroke—or will time prove otherwise? There’s more to this story than meets the eye, and the early signs are raising eyebrows across the league. Dive in to uncover the full picture behind one of this season’s most talked-about deals.

Photo of Logan Mailloux and Zachary Bolduc, Kent Hughes

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

While the Montreal Canadiens and their fans are clearly enjoying Zachary Bolduc’s spectacular debut.

Former Hab Logan Mailloux is experiencing a difficult start to the season with the St. Louis Blues, where his performances are causing significant concern.

The St. Louis Blues have had a quiet start to the season, with one win and one loss in their first two games.

However, beyond the team results, it’s the usage of Logan Mailloux that is drawing particular attention.

Acquired in the trade that sent Zachary Bolduc to Montreal, the young defenseman is clearly struggling to establish himself with his new team.

Limited ice time for Logan Mailloux with the St. Louis Blues

Last night, during the game against the Calgary Flames, Mailloux spent only 8 minutes and 18 seconds on the ice, finishing the game with a -1 rating.

This followed his first game against the Minnesota Wild, in which he was used for 14 minutes and 12 seconds but ended the night with a -2 rating in a heavy 5-0 loss.

On X, a Blues fan account, BluesMuse, tried to calm frustrated fans:

“I want to remind all the Blues fans complaining about Mailloux that it’s his 9th NHL game.

It will be alright”

But from our side in Montreal, it’s hard not to compare the two players.

While Mailloux is still finding his footing in the NHL, Zachary Bolduc is turning heads for Montreal with three goals in his first three games.

I honestly think this trade could become one of Kent Hughes’ best, especially if Bolduc keeps up the pace.

And yes, I know it’s still early after just a few games, but we have to admit that, for now, this trade is clearly tilting in favor of the Canadiens.