The Montreal Canadiens’ ongoing quest to solidify their second-line center position has once again ignited a firestorm of debate in the hockey world, and this time, a bold new proposal is threatening to shake up everything fans thought they knew about the team’s future.

With the city’s media buzzing and Kent Hughes seemingly eager to solve this lingering issue, a recent statement from one of the most respected voices in Canadiens coverage has set tongues wagging and keyboards clacking.

On a popular podcast episode, a renowned analyst dropped a suggestion so surprising that it’s already sparking heated reactions among fans and insiders alike.

The idea? A high-profile trade involving one of Montreal’s most promising young talents—a move that could redefine the team’s trajectory for years to come. But is it a stroke of genius, or a risky gamble that could haunt the franchise?

As speculation swirls and names like Mason McTavish enter the conversation, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Everyone wants to know: Would you pull the trigger on a deal that could change everything? Before you make up your mind, you’ll want to read the full story behind this headline-grabbing proposal and decide where you stand on the controversy.

Photo of Jacob fowler

Photo credit: NHL

The famous second-center situation continues to be a hot topic in the Montreal media, and it really feels like Kent Hughes wants to resolve it soon.

On Tony Marinaro’s podcast, the excellent Brian Wilde made a statement that is likely to spark reactions today.

He mentioned that the Canadiens should absolutely jump on the opportunity to trade Jacob Fowler for a “good young second-line center.”

Even though Fowler is one of the Habs’ top prospects, and one of the best goalie prospects in the NHL, he gives the example of Cayden Primeau to point out how unpredictable the development of a young goaltender can be.

Brian Wilde suggests the Montreal Canadiens trade Jacob Fowler for a good young second-line center

What’s your opinion on this?

“If you can get a good young second-line center for Jacob Fowler, you jump on the opportunity.” – Brian Wilde

Personally, I’m really, really not a fan of the idea of trading away a young player like Fowler, but it’s true that if we’re talking about someone like Mason McTavish, it definitely makes you think.

[Video] This comes up around the 48th minute of the following Tony Marinaro podcast.

I would still lean toward saying “NO” to Brian Wilde’s proposal, but it’s clear that someone like Mason McTavish would make me think twice.

Mason McTavish, 22 years old, is a complete 6-foot-2, 220-pound center who was drafted 3rd overall by the Anaheim Ducks in 2021 (first round).

He has 140 points in 229 career NHL games, including 60 goals, and he recorded 52 points in 76 games in 2024-2025, playing on a third line with limited power-play time.