As the NHL offseason heats up, rumors and speculation swirl around the Montreal Canadiens and their quest to reshape the roster. With the team’s early playoff exit still fresh in the minds of fans, General Manager Kent Hughes has wasted no time exploring bold new options to strengthen the Habs’ forward group. While countless names have been linked to Montreal in recent weeks, one emerging storyline has captured the attention of insiders and supporters alike.

The Canadiens are reportedly eyeing a dynamic young forward who could become a game-changer for the franchise. Behind the scenes, talks have intensified, and the possibility of a major trade is quickly becoming more than just idle chatter. As sources close to the situation reveal intriguing details about contract disputes and player dissatisfaction, it’s clear that Montreal is poised to make a significant move. With the potential to pair a rising star alongside Ivan Demidov, the stakes have never been higher. The coming weeks promise plenty of drama, as Kent Hughes and his staff look to make a splash that could alter the Canadiens’ trajectory for years to come.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: SportsNet

Since the elimination of the Montreal Canadiens, numerous forwards have been linked by various media outlets to Kent Hughes and the Habs.

That said, which player-or players-is the organization truly interested in to eventually pair with Ivan Demidov?

According to certain sources, the first name that has now been more seriously targeted by the Canadiens on the trade market is the talented Minnesota Wild forward Marco Rossi.

I’ve already mentioned him before, but among all the rumors currently swirling, I consider this one the most serious and most likely.

All signs point to Marco Rossi actually leaving the Minnesota Wild, and the Montreal Canadiens will have their chance

Here’s an interesting new development on that front.

“1 – There is a dispute over a contract extension.

Rossi turned down a 5-year, $5M per season offer; he wants $7M (his agent is comparing it to Coronato’s contract).

2 – Rossi was reportedly upset about being used on the 4th line in the playoffs (rightfully so)”

– Podcast La Relève

The topic was even discussed on BPM Sports in recent days.

As Elliotte Friedman mentioned on his 32 Thoughts podcast, targeting Marco Rossi makes complete sense for the Montreal Canadiens.

The only drawback some may note, if you rush to look up his profile, is his size.

However, despite standing just 5-foot-9 and weighing slightly under 200 pounds, he plays big, he plays physical, and he’s an absolute training beast.

Rossi, who posted 60 points in 82 games this season with the Minnesota Wild and is 23 years old, could he be the solution for the Canadiens’ second-line center role?

Many believe so, and Kent Hughes will definitely be doing his homework on this one.

This could happen via trade-or possibly via an offer sheet.

It’s worth noting that the connection between Marco Rossi and the Montreal Canadiens isn’t new!