It’s been a whirlwind week in Montreal, and the hockey world is buzzing with anticipation. The Canadiens have just pulled off a move that few saw coming, and the ripple effects are already being felt across the NHL.

With one phone call, General Manager Kent Hughes has not only shifted the team’s financial landscape but also set the stage for what could be a game-changing summer in Montreal.

Insiders and fans alike are on edge, speculating about what might come next. Rumors are swirling, and trusted voices in the hockey community are dropping hints that something BIG is brewing behind the scenes.

Who is Hughes targeting? What position will he strengthen? And could this be the move that finally propels the Canadiens back into serious contention?

One thing is certain: the Canadiens are no longer playing it safe. With bold decisions, a surprising trade, and newfound flexibility, Hughes has made it clear that Montreal is ready to shake things up.

But as whispers of another blockbuster deal grow louder, the real question remains—just how far is Kent Hughes willing to go to transform his team? Stay tuned, because the story is only just beginning.

Canadiens GM Kent Hughes on the phone.

Photo credit: NHL

After creating nearly $5 million in salary cap space with the trade of Carey Price’s contract, all eyes are now on Kent Hughes.

By trading Price and a 2026 5th-round pick to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for young defenseman Gannon Laroque, he gave himself significant flexibility.

This masterstroke by Hughes, negotiated without giving up a high draft pick despite rumors suggesting the Canadiens might have to part with a 2nd-rounder, provides the team with increased flexibility, making it easier to add a 2nd-line center or other reinforcements.

Now, it’s time to get serious. Everyone knows which gap the Canadiens need to fill if they want to compete for the top honors.

“There will be another trade,” says journalist Renaud Lavoie, Montreal Canadiens beat reporter

Although he often faces harsh criticism, no one can question Renaud Lavoie’s connections in the hockey world.

That’s why he surprised many when he stated yesterday, on BPM Sports, that Kent Hughes is already searching for his next target.

“Yes, there will be another trade.

We just don’t have the exact date yet!”

– Renaud Lavoie

It would be very bold to claim one could predict exactly which player the Canadiens’ GM will target, but it’s safe to assume that a center with the skills to anchor a 2nd line is Hughes’ and the organization’s top priority.

On that note, an article published yesterday identifies two players the Canadiens could afford with the cap space they just freed up.

Canadiens fans, stay tuned-good old Kent doesn’t seem finished surprising us yet!