As the NHL offseason heats up and the rumor mill kicks into overdrive, the Montreal Canadiens find themselves squarely in the spotlight. With the draft and free agency looming, speculation around potential summer moves is reaching a fever pitch among fans and analysts alike. While many names have been tossed around in recent weeks, few have generated as much buzz—or as much genuine intrigue—as the possibility of Marco Rossi donning the bleu-blanc-rouge.

The Canadiens, led by general manager Kent Hughes, are at a pivotal point in their rebuild, searching for the right pieces to accelerate their return to contention. Amid a quieter stretch in Habs news, attention has shifted to the trade market and restricted free agents who could make a real impact. It’s no surprise, then, that Rossi—a dynamic young center coming off a breakout season—has emerged as a focal point of discussion across Montreal media and beyond.

Whether through an aggressive offer sheet or a calculated trade, the idea of acquiring a player of Rossi’s caliber is tantalizing for a franchise eager to take the next step. As rumors swirl and excitement builds, all eyes remain on what could be a defining summer for the Canadiens.

Dec 6, 2024; Anaheim, California, USA; Minnesota Wild center Marco Rossi (23) moves the puck against the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Photo credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

As you know, it’s rumor and speculation season for the Montreal Canadiens.

During this quieter period in Habs news, many journalists and hosts are taking the opportunity to suggest summer acquisitions for Kent Hughes.

However, among all the rumors I’ve seen in the past few days, one stands out as more serious than the others.

Is Marco Rossi Heading to the Montreal Canadiens?

In my opinion, this is the most credible rumor going around, for a few reasons:

1- Reliable sources have confirmed that Rossi is indeed available in Minnesota. (Including Bleacher Report)

2- Sources outside of Montreal have linked Rossi to the Canadiens, so it’s not just coming from local reporters.

3- He’s a young, fiery center who can absolutely be a solid second-line center in the NHL.

And the list goes on..

In short, the topic was discussed on BPM Sports airwaves in the past few hours.

“Marco Rossi.

Restricted free agent.

If you don’t want to trade, you can pay for him (offer sheet).

That’s a great idea!

Sure, I’d rather Rossi be 6-foot-4, but there are smaller players who play big, and there are 6-foot-4 guys who play small.

You know, Laine is big, but he doesn’t play big.

Rossi is a workout beast, he’s a machine, with an insane work ethic.”

– Anthony Desaulniers and Gilbert Delorme

It’s definitely an intriguing possibility to keep in mind, and a major rumor making the rounds right now, whether through an offer sheet or a trade.

Marco Rossi could truly be a valuable pickup for Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton.

Only 23 years old, he tallied 60 points in 82 games this season with the Minnesota Wild, including 24 goals, while posting a positive plus-minus of +3.