The Montreal Canadiens’ blockbuster trade with the Colorado Avalanche, which brought Alex Newhook to Montreal at the cost of coveted first- and second-round draft picks, has sparked fierce debate across the hockey world.

While some fans still hope for a breakthrough, a prominent TSN analyst has delivered a brutally honest assessment that could shift the conversation entirely. Is Newhook truly destined for a fourth-line role, or is there untapped potential waiting to be unleashed?

Eric Macramalla’s recent comments have set off alarm bells, questioning not only Newhook’s place in the lineup but also the wisdom of Kent Hughes’ decision-making.

With sharp critiques about Newhook’s speed and turnover tendencies, the analyst’s perspective challenges the optimism that once surrounded the young forward’s arrival in Montreal. As doubts grow, the trade is being re-examined in a new, more critical light.

But is this verdict justified, or is there more to Newhook’s game than meets the eye? Can he defy expectations and prove himself as a reliable top-six forward, or will he remain a cautionary tale in Canadiens’ history?

Dive deeper into this unfolding narrative to discover the full story behind one of the team’s most controversial acquisitions in recent years.

Photo credit: NHL

Eric Macramalla, from TSN, had plenty to say about the trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche involving Alex Newhook.

In his opinion, in this trade, Kent Hughes gave up a first-round pick (and also a second-round pick) for nothing more than a fourth-line player. Ouch.

“Alex Newhook is a fourth-line player!”

Speaking on Shaun Starr’s podcast, Eric Macramalla had harsh words for Newy.

Alex Newhook is a Fourth-Line Forward for the Montreal Canadiens, According to a TSN Analyst

Do you agree with him?

“Eric Macramalla would put him on a fourth line. In fact, he said on The Shaun Starr Show that he’s a fourth-line player.”

“Macramalla likes his speed, but he actually thinks his legs are too fast for the rest of his body.” – DLC

The analyst added that Newhook is a turnover machine, especially at the worst possible moments, and that he would be far less damaging on a fourth line.

When you think about it, we’re talking about a player who actually cost the Canadiens first- and second-round draft picks in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche.

It’s not one of Kent Hughes’ best trades, though there seemed to be some potential.

I’m speaking in the past tense because I unfortunately no longer believe Newhook can become a solid top-six forward in the National Hockey League.

It’s hard to find a role for him because he’s not a top-six forward, but he doesn’t have the toughness of a fourth-liner either.

And you – do you still believe Newhook can become a regular and effective top-six forward for the Montreal Canadiens?