As the NHL offseason heats up, trade rumors are once again swirling around the Montreal Canadiens, with one name standing out above the rest: Joshua Roy.

The young forward has been at the center of speculation for months, and with recent roster changes, the chatter has only intensified.

Now, a new trade proposal involving Roy and veteran defenseman Erik Gudbranson has emerged, sparking heated debate among fans and analysts alike.

The potential deal, first suggested by journalist Cole Shelton, would see Montreal add size and experience to their blue line, while Columbus would acquire a promising offensive talent.

With both players bringing unique skill sets and questions about fit and value lingering, the hockey world is left wondering whether this bold move could reshape the Canadiens’ future—or if it’s simply another rumor destined to fade away.

As opinions fly and the stakes rise, all eyes are on Montreal’s front office to see what comes next in this high-stakes game of roster chess.

Feb 27, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Joshua Roy (89) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Arizona Coyotes at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The name Joshua Roy has been circulating in trade rumors for quite some time now, and following the departure of Logan Mailloux, it feels like he’s next.

A few months ago, we even reported this exclusively:

The next question is..

What could Joshua Roy fetch in a trade?

On that note, journalist Cole Shelton put forward a concrete trade proposal between the Montreal Canadiens and the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Trade proposal between the Montreal Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets, from Cole Shelton, involving Joshua Roy and Erik Gudbranson

Here is what he suggests:

To Montreal: Erik Gudbranson

To Columbus: Joshua Roy

I’m not a fan of this proposal, mainly due to Gudbranson’s hefty salary, but I’ll let you form your own opinion on the offer.

Roy, 21, is a 6-foot, 192-pound forward who was selected 150th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2021 (5th round).

He has 11 points in 35 NHL games and recorded 35 points in 47 games with the Laval Rocket in 2024-25, including 20 goals.

Gudbranson, 33, is a 6-foot-5, 222-pound right-shot defenseman who was drafted 3rd overall by the Florida Panthers in 2010 (1st round).

He has 137 points in 805 NHL games and posted 4 points in 16 games with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2024-25.

His annual salary is $4 million, and his contract ends next summer.

It’s clear that this would make the Canadiens’ defensive unit much more physical and tough, especially for the playoffs, but I still have my doubts about Gudbranson.