After Jake Evans’ signing by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens, another player’s name has reportedly been taken off the trade market. It’s not all that surprising, but it’s nice to see multiple sources confirming it.

Not only will Evans stay with the Habs, but Joel Armia as well.

“Hard to imagine Joel Armia moving unless an offer blows away Kent Hughes. There was rumours of an Evans/Armia package but now that he’s signed, Habs may want to use Armia as their own rental.”

David Calabretta, The Fourth Period

It all makes perfect sense!

 

Joel Armia is also reportedly off the trade market unless an incredible offer comes in

Evans made his choice:

 

And don’t be surprised if Joel Armia eventually does the same.

 

Yes, trading Joel Armia would be counterproductive:

 

“Joel Armia can breathe easy because trading him would be counterproductive.

It would make no sense for Kent Hughes to send him elsewhere after reaching an agreement with Evans..

And with the Canadiens currently in the thick of the playoff race in the East.”

Marc-Olivier Cook

It’s strange to say, but the two are so closely linked that Jake Evans’ contract extension has an immediate and drastic impact on the possibility of a trade for Armia.

I fully expect him to still be with the Canadiens in a week, unless there’s a major turn of events.