In a surprising turn of events, two players have just been placed on waivers, instantly sparking speculation among hockey fans and analysts that they could be intriguing options for the Montreal Canadiens. Both players, known for their specific skill sets and recent performances, have names that are already circulating in online trade rumors and message boards. For the Canadiens, who are looking to bolster their roster midseason to solidify their playoff push or address glaring weaknesses, this development presents an exciting opportunity.

The first player, a gritty, physical forward with a knack for defensive responsibility and faceoff wins, could provide much-needed depth down the middle while also serving as a reliable shutdown option against opposing teams’ top lines.

The second player, a dynamic offensive defenseman with elite skating ability and offensive upside from the blue line, could add a much-needed spark to Montreal’s power play while shoring up their overall defensive stability. Both players fit profiles that align with the Canadiens’ known needs and playing style, leading many to wonder if General Manager Kent Hughes is already preparing a pitch to bring one—or both—of these players to Montreal.

The potential signings would not only inject fresh talent into the Canadiens’ lineup but also send ripples throughout the league, as other teams weigh the implications of losing these players. For the Canadiens’ faithful, the situation opens the door to endless debate about how these potential acquisitions could reshape the team’s chemistry and performance down the stretch. Questions immediately arise: Would the team prioritize offense or defense?

How would these players mesh with the existing core, including stars like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Shea Weber? And perhaps most importantly, what kind of financial commitments are involved, especially considering the salary cap constraints that could limit Montreal’s ability to make additional moves this season? While nothing is guaranteed yet, the fact that these players are even available creates a tantalizing “what if” scenario for Habs fans who are eager to see their team make a deeper playoff run.

This isn’t the first time this season that waiver wire activity has generated buzz around the Canadiens, and Hughes has shown a willingness to act decisively when presented with opportunities to improve the team. However, these latest names bring unique challenges and opportunities.

The players’ recent performances, injury histories, and contract situations will all factor heavily into the decision-making process. Additionally, the Canadiens’ scouting department will undoubtedly be working overtime to assess how these players would fit into head coach Dominique Ducharme’s system. As the hockey world watches closely, one thing remains clear: the Canadiens are once again positioning themselves as active players in the ever-evolving trade and waiver market.

Whether these particular players end up in Montreal or not, the buzz surrounding their availability underscores the team’s commitment to doing whatever it takes to contend for Lord Stanley’s Cup. Fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on any updates, ready to celebrate if the Habs pull off another blockbuster move—or disappointed if these opportunities slip through their fingers. All we know for now is that the next few days promise to be anything but boring for Canadiens Nation.

We have some action on the NHL waiver wire today, on the final day of the Four Nations Faceoff between Canada and the United States.

Two defensemen are currently available for free, including a former star defenseman.

We’re talking about Tyson Barrie (CAL) and Dennis Cholowski (NYI).

Tyson Barrie and Dennis Cholowski on the NHL Waiver Wire

It’s quite surprising to see a name like Barrie placed on waivers.

Barrie, 33 years old, is a right-handed defenseman standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 197 pounds.

He has accumulated 508 points in 822 career games in the NHL, including 110 goals, and as recently as 2023, he recorded an impressive 43 points in 61 games with the Edmonton Oilers.

He could be an interesting short term option for St-Louis and the Canadiens if Hughes receives a compelling trade offer for Matheson or Savard.

More recently, he has tallied 3 points in 13 games with the Calgary Flames this season, along with 27 points in 65 games with the Nashville Predators over the past two campaigns.

He earns $1.25 million per year, and his contract expires at the end of the season.

As for Dennis Cholowski, he is a 27-year-old left-handed defenseman with a 6-foot-2, 210-pound frame.

He was a first-round pick by the Detroit Red Wings in 2016 (20th overall) and has accumulated 40 points in 150 career games in the NHL, including 10 points in 33 games this season on Long Island.

During his most recent stint in the AHL (2023), Cholowski recorded 31 points in 68 games.

More details to come, and these two defensemen will learn their fate at 2 PM tomorrow.