The Colorado Avalanche are once again at the center of NHL trade rumors, and this time, the spotlight is on forward Martin Necas. After joining the Avalanche in a high-profile deal that saw Mikko Rantanen head to Carolina, Necas was expected to be a key piece for Colorado’s future.

However, just 37 games into his tenure, whispers are growing louder that the 26-year-old Czech star may already be eyeing an exit. Reports suggest Necas hasn’t been entirely satisfied with his experience in Denver, raising questions about his long-term fit with the Avalanche.

With only one year remaining on his contract, speculation is mounting that Colorado’s management could look to move him rather than risk losing a valuable asset for nothing. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens, in need of a dynamic second-line center, are being linked as a potential landing spot. As tensions simmer in the Avalanche locker room following a disappointing playoff exit, all eyes are now on GM Chris MacFarland and his next move. The coming weeks could see yet another blockbuster deal, one that may reshape both Colorado’s and Montreal’s rosters heading into the next NHL season.

May 1, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) celebrates his go ahead goal with defenseman Samuel Girard (49), left wing Artturi Lehkonen (62),center Martin Necas (88) and defenseman Sam Malinski (70) in the third period against the Dallas Stars against the Dallas Stars in game six of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Martin Necas has only played 37 games in a Colorado Avalanche uniform, including the playoffs, and he might already be on his way out.

According to what Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet reported in a recent article, the 26-year-old forward may not be sure he wants to sign a new deal with the Avalanche.

“There was a sense Necas wasn’t overly thrilled with his experience in Colorado and that he wants to explore other options.”

– Nick Kypreos

A Chris MacFarland Trade That’s Sparking Talk in Colorado

Let’s remember that Necas was acquired along with Jack Drury, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick in the trade that sent Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes.

Following that trade, the Avalanche only played seven playoff games, losing their series to the Dallas Stars.

It was a loss that really frustrated Nathan MacKinnon, who vented his frustration while playing for Canada at the World Championship.

“I’ve got nothing better to do.”
Nathan MacKinnon

Tension seems to be high in the locker room, which could hurt the club’s chances of keeping the Czech forward long term.

If Necas truly wants to leave the organization that paid a hefty price to get him, he could soon end up on the trade market.

With one year remaining on his contract, Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland will undoubtedly want to get a return on his player rather than lose him for nothing at the end of next season.

Martin Necas, a Fit for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens?

Everyone knows the Canadiens are looking for a second-line center.

If Necas is indeed available, there’s no doubt Kent Hughes will look into the matter.

Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 195 pounds, the right-handed center tallied 27 goals and 56 assists for a career-high 83 points in 79 games. He also added 5 points in 7 playoff games.

Playing on the top line with MacKinnon and Artturi Lehkonen this season, Necas could very well center Montreal’s second unit.

Considering the strong relationship between Colorado and Montreal-think Justin Barron for Artturi Lehkonen and the Alex Newhook trade-it’ll be interesting to see what the GM would be willing to offer for Necas..