As the final echoes of summer fade and students return to their classrooms, a different kind of anticipation is building in the world of hockey.

The MONTREAL CANADIENS, along with other NHL teams, are quietly transitioning from holiday mode to high alert, and the signs are everywhere—from players skating in Brossard to hushed activity on the seventh floor of the Bell Centre. But this year, the buzz feels different.

With KENT HUGHES reportedly back at work, the rumor mill is churning faster than ever.

Reliable sources tease that not only the CANADIENS, but also the ANAHEIM DUCKS and CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS, have returned to their offices, sparking speculation about what could be brewing behind closed doors. Insider whispers suggest that unexpected moves may be on the horizon, and familiar names are already swirling in the trade winds.

What exactly is happening between these teams? Is a blockbuster deal in the works, or is it all smoke and mirrors?

One thing is certain: the CANADIENS have a history of surprising the hockey world just when fans least expect it. As late August turns to September, everyone is watching—waiting for the next big twist.

Photo credit: NHL

The holidays are not only over for students returning to class this week, but also for NHL teams like the Canadiens.

Since some time, we have seen several players from the Montreal Canadiens organization back on the ice in Brossard to stay in shape ahead of the upcoming campaign. According to what we understand today, the holidays would also be over on the 7th floor of the Bell Centre.

Kent Hughes traded his sandals for his work boots

As reported by X user Incarceratedbob, the Habs GM’s vacation is indeed over. Just like those of the Anaheim Ducks and Chicago Blackhawks executives.

Over the years, the one who also likes to call himself IB The Gambler has proven that he can have solid information. Whether in football, basketball, baseball, or hockey, the insider has always had good info. His success rate, especially concerning the Habs, is quite high. That’s why I’m comfortable relaying this information to you.

An easy link to make between the Habs and the Ducks

Although the famous Bob does not say that the three teams are calling each other, it is easy to make connections. Indeed, on numerous occasions this summer the two teams have been linked, notably regarding Mason McTavish. He would, in fact, be the ideal center for Martin St-Louis’ squad.

Another possible transaction would be one that sends Carey Price’s contract elsewhere. As we now know, this type of transaction could only happen after his signing bonus was paid out, at the beginning of September. Hughes could be finalizing the details of this transaction and preparing the one that would fill the hole left under the team’s salary cap by the departure of that big contract.

In all this, we must remember that Kent Hughes has gotten us used to out-of-left-field trades. Everything could once again happen as late August (early September) is one of his most active times of the year.