Canadiens GM Kent Hughes is reportedly not resting on his laurels, with whispers suggesting he’s actively exploring trade avenues that could net Montreal an additional first-round pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.

While the Canadiens already hold a lottery pick, the possibility of securing another selection in the coveted top 32 indicates Hughes’ commitment to accelerating the rebuild and stockpiling young talent.

The potential trade package remains speculative, but it likely involves leveraging existing assets – perhaps a veteran player with term remaining, a promising prospect who doesn’t fit the immediate timeline, or even future considerations. The target team would likely be one looking to shed salary, acquire immediate help, or consolidate their draft capital.

For Hughes, landing another first-rounder would provide further flexibility, whether it’s used to select another high-potential player, or as a valuable chip in a subsequent trade for an established, yet young, NHL talent.

This potential move signals a proactive approach from the Canadiens’ management, aiming to maximize value and build a sustainable contender.

As the trade deadline approaches on March 7, everyone is wondering about the plans of the Montreal Canadiens’ management. Will Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes lean more toward selling or buying?

In recent months, the two executives have created some uncertainty about their intentions.

While Hughes has mentioned wanting to stick to the plan, for his part, has stated that it is not impossible for the administration to help the players as a way of rewarding their efforts.

“You won’t see us trading young players.. if there’s an opportunity to help these guys, they’ve earned it.”

Jeff Gorton

Pairing Jake Evans and Joel Armia to Maximize Their Return

In recent days, Arpon Basu from The Athletic has shared new information that sheds some light on the Canadiens’ management’s intentions.

According to one of his sources, Kent Hughes has already explored the league to see if he could receive a first-round pick by packaging Jake Evans and Joel Armia together in a trade.

“This is an idea we had discussed before the Four Nations Face-Off break. According to an NHL source, the Canadiens’ goal would be to acquire a first-round pick in the next draft.

The Pittsburgh Penguins and San Jose Sharks have already set the market by trading two rental players in exchange for a first-round pick.”

Arpon Basu

Here are the trades Basu is referring to:

The Penguins traded Marcus Pettersson and Drew O’Connor to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for a 2025 first-round pick.

Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks traded Mikael Granlund and defenseman Cody Ceci, with the Dallas Stars sending a 2025 first-round pick in return.

A Big Gap Between Jake Evans’ Camp and the Canadiens, According to Tony Marinaro

On Wednesday morning, during his show on BPM Sports, the outspoken Tony Marinaro shared new information about Jake Evans’ salary demands.

According to the host’s sources, Evans is seeking a five-year contract worth $20 million.

“What I’m hearing is that Jake Evans’ camp is asking for a five-year contract at $4 million per season.

It sounds like they’re far apart.

What have the Canadiens offered, in terms of money and years?

I don’t know, but it looks like there has been no movement.

It seems that the Evans camp is not optimistic.

It seems that, according to them, he’s as good as gone.

And even so, Jake, if you look at him lately, he doesn’t look happy.”

Tony Marinaro, on BPM Sports

Based on Basu’s comments, it appears the Canadiens are not willing to meet Evans’ asking price.

Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if the forward is traded before March 7..