As the NHL offseason heats up, the Montreal Canadiens are once again at the center of trade speculation, with General Manager Kent Hughes working behind the scenes to reshape the team’s future. While familiar names often dominate the rumor mill, a surprising new storyline has emerged—one that could see a legendary figure’s contract changing hands.

According to respected insider Marco D’Amico, who has a proven track record of breaking major Canadiens news, Kent Hughes is actively exploring the possibility of moving Carey Price’s contract this summer.

Though Price is no longer an active player, his contract remains a significant factor in Montreal’s salary cap calculations, creating both challenges and unique opportunities for the Canadiens’ management. With the contract’s $10.5 million cap hit and its appeal to teams looking to reach the NHL’s salary floor, the potential trade has become a hot topic among fans and analysts alike.

As the Canadiens look to clear financial space for potential roster upgrades, the fate of Price’s contract could play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s offseason plans and future direction.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: Journal de Montreal

We know that Kent Hughes is already preparing the trades he hopes to complete this summer.

We know there are certain usual names floating around in trade rumors, but according to the excellent Marco D’Amico, who is very well-informed and notably broke the scoop about Ivan Demidov’s arrival, a new name would now be available in Montreal.

Kent Hughes has reportedly placed Carey Price’s contract on the trade market

Yes, a contract like that holds value for some teams struggling to reach the NHL’s salary floor.

D’Amico outright mentions a “strong possibility” that Price’s contract will be traded this summer.

Obviously, since he no longer plays, it’s not exactly earth-shattering news, but still.. it would be something special to see Carey Price traded by the Montreal Canadiens.

It would be strange to see him belong to another team, just to finish off that famous contract.

“In case you missed it: The strong possibility of the Montreal Canadiens moving Carey Price’s contract this summer”

Marco D’Amico

He explains it well in his article, but basically, you need to understand that Price’s contract is starting to become a burden for Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton.

It’s becoming a rock in their shoe if they want to make significant acquisitions over the next few weeks.

One thing is clear, if a team needing to reach the NHL’s salary floor wants to acquire Carey Price’s contract, it is indeed available on the trade market.

Price, now 37 years old, is signed through 2026, and his contract carries a $10.5 million cap hit. However, his actual salary is much lower.