Exactly three years ago, a trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the Calgary Flames sent shockwaves through the NHL—a deal that, at the time, seemed like just another move in the busy world of hockey transactions.

But as the dust settled, whispers began to swirl: had the Canadiens just pulled off one of the most franchise-altering trades in recent memory? Insiders and fans alike couldn’t help but speculate about the long-term effects of this bold exchange, which would eventually set off a chain reaction of events that no one could have predicted.

Fast forward to today, and the impact of that single decision is still being felt throughout the league. What began as a seemingly routine transaction has blossomed into a masterstroke that continues to shape the future of the Canadiens in ways both subtle and spectacular.

How did a deal that barely made headlines at first become a pivotal turning point for Montreal? What hidden gems did the Canadiens uncover, and how did this trade set them on a new path toward contention?

The full story is filled with twists, surprises, and a level of foresight that few could have anticipated. Read on to discover how one trade changed everything.

Photo of Canadiens and Flames

Photo credit: NHL

Exactly three years ago today, the Montreal Canadiens completed a major trade on offense with the Calgary Flames.

It is probably Kent Hughes’ best trade to date.

In order to sign center Nazem Kadri, the Flames rushed to pay the Tricolore (a 1st-round pick) so they would accept to take forward Sean Monahan for free, along with 100% of his contract.

Three years ago today, the Montreal Canadiens acquired Sean Monahan and a 1st-round pick in the draft for free

This trade still has a major impact on the Habs today.

First of all, because the 1st-round pick acquired on August 18, 2022 (from the Flames) allowed Montreal to get their hands on elite defenseman Noah Dobson.

And then, because Sean Monahan was traded to the Winnipeg Jets (by the Montreal Canadiens in February 2024), in exchange for a 1st-round pick that allowed the Canadiens to land Michael Hage.

It’s truly incredible.

The trade completed between the Canadiens and Kings ended up costing Kent Hughes far less than expected!

So, to summarize and complete the full tree of this absolutely incredible trade, the Montreal Canadiens transformed..

A 17th overall pick in 2025 + Emil Heineman + future considerations

Into

Noah Dobson + Michael Hage + a 3rd-round pick in 2027.

This is the kind of trade that truly changes the face of a franchise, and it all started.. on August 18, 2022!

So today marks the third anniversary of this trade that completely transformed the Montreal Canadiens.

“On this day in 2022: Calgary traded Sean Monahan and a conditional 1st-round pick in 2025 to Montreal in exchange for future considerations.”

What a trade! I’ll never get over it.