As the NHL Draft rapidly approaches, the Montreal Canadiens are once again making headlines with a bold shift in their trade strategy. After missing out on Trevor Zegras, who was dealt to the Philadelphia Flyers, general manager Kent Hughes and executive Jeff Gorton have wasted no time pivoting to new opportunities. The latest reports from respected insiders like Pierre LeBrun and Marco D’Amico suggest that the Canadiens are now casting a much wider net, aggressively searching for a high-impact top-six forward to bolster their lineup.

Rather than settling for a second-line center, Montreal’s front office is determined to make a meaningful upgrade, exploring multiple avenues and engaging in ongoing discussions with several teams. This proactive approach signals a clear intent: the Canadiens are committed to accelerating their rebuild and making a statement at this year’s draft. With rumors swirling and names like Jordan Kyrou emerging as possible targets, anticipation is building for what could be a dramatic few days in Montreal. All eyes are on Hughes and his team as they work tirelessly behind the scenes, determined not to leave anything to chance in their pursuit of success.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: SportsNet

We have another interesting development on the NHL trade market, particularly involving Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

We know the Habs were interested in acquiring Trevor Zegras, and that he was ultimately traded to the Philadelphia Flyers yesterday at noon.

That said, things are far from over for Hughes and Jeff Gorton!

Kent Hughes changes his trade target, and calls are being made today

According to multiple credible sources, including Pierre LeBrun and Marco D’Amico, the Canadiens are currently very active on the trade market.

Hughes is leaving nothing to chance and is involved in every situation!

That said, we’ve now learned that the Canadiens have indeed shifted their target.

Instead of simply aiming to acquire a second-line center, the Canadiens are now aggressively looking to add a top-six impact forward (who could be a winger).

“Spoke about it on this channel, but the Canadiens have expanded their search from 2C to top-6 forward in an aggressive way.

Was told that the club is talking to many teams about improving up front, but won’t sell the farm for a bad fit at 2C.

Couple of irons in the fire.”

– Marco D’Amico

That’s definitely intriguing!

This is exactly what Pierre LeBrun also reported.

An impact winger like Jordan Kyrou could be a name to watch for the Montreal Canadiens.

Expect a lot of action between now and Friday or Saturday!