We had an absolutely incredible NHL trade deadline, though it was quieter for the Montreal Canadiens. For Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton, it was clearly not for lack of trying.

According to what the Canadiens’ general manager himself mentioned in a press conference after the deadline, he genuinely tried to acquire a big-name player but was unsuccessful.

“These negotiations will resume next summer,” added Kent Hughes in front of journalists in Brossard.

Kent Hughes announces that he negotiated a major trade involving a well-known player under contract.

He even attempted moves bigger than we initially thought.

Elliotte Friedman reveals that Kent Hughes and the Habs tried something for star player Mikko Rantanen.

In short, he tried.

Pierre LeBrun reveals the name of another top-6 player the Montreal Canadiens attempted to acquire on Friday: Dylan Cozens

According to the excellent Pierre LeBrun (TSN), Kent Hughes was indeed involved in discussions regarding Dylan Cozens.

“LeBrun on TSN says the Canadiens kicked tires on Dylan Cozens as well.”

– Via NHL Watcher

As you know, Cozens was ultimately traded to the Ottawa Senators in a deal that also included Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker, but Kent Hughes had also attempted to acquire him.

Everything indicates that the Sens’ offer was simply superior to that of the Montreal Canadiens.

If we speculate, we can imagine that the Canadiens’ offer centered around Kirby Dach and Logan Mailloux. (For Cozens and a 2nd-round pick?)

One thing is certain, if Kent Hughes had a quiet trade deadline, everything suggests he will attempt a major move during the 2025 NHL Draft and the offseason.