As the Montreal Canadiens look to turn the page on another challenging season, all eyes are on general manager Kent Hughes and his next moves to reshape the roster. The team’s early playoff exit has only intensified the pressure to address glaring needs, particularly down the middle. While the rumor mill has churned out familiar names, there’s a sense that the Canadiens need a fresh approach—one that could truly energize the top-six and unlock the potential of their young core.

Behind the scenes, whispers are growing louder about an intriguing possibility that hasn’t yet dominated headlines. With the offseason in full swing and rival teams already maneuvering to strengthen their lineups, the Habs can’t afford to miss out on the next big opportunity. It’s clear that a bold, strategic acquisition could be the catalyst Montreal needs to accelerate its rebuild and reignite hope among its passionate fanbase.

Insiders are now pointing to a rising star who may be flying under the radar, but whose skill set and experience could make him the perfect fit for the Canadiens’ ambitions. As the front office weighs its options, the question becomes: is now the time to make a move that could change the team’s trajectory for years to come?

Photo credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

After the Canadiens’ elimination, Kent Hughes is already back to work to improve his team.

Among the tasks he needs to accomplish is finding a second-line center, and there’s a player no one is talking about who has caught the attention of an insider.

During an appearance on the The Shaun Starr Show podcast, Marco D’Amico mentioned that he believes Florida Panthers forward Anton Lundell would be the ideal candidate to center the Canadiens’ second line.

“He is the perfect prototype of a Finnish top-6 center.

He has playoff experience and knows what it takes to win.

In my opinion, he’s just waiting for a real opportunity in a top-6 [to break out offensively].

I feel that with all the forwards on the Panthers, like Matthew Tkachuk, Sam Reinhart, Aleksander Barkov, Carter Verhaeghe, and Sam Bennett, there isn’t really room on the top two lines for a player like Lundell.

We are still talking about a complete center, someone who could cover Patrik Laine and help Ivan Demidov produce in the Canadiens’ top-6.”

Marco D’Amico

Anton Lundell, the ideal acquisition for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens? The message has been sent to Kent Hughes!

A first-round pick by the Panthers in 2020, the Finnish forward had his most productive season yet in 2024-2025, posting 45 points in 79 games.

He also represented Finland at the Four Nations Tournament a few months ago, so he has plenty of experience in important games.

Due to the presence of Aleksander Barkov and Sam Bennett, who is expected to re-sign there, Lundell plays on the Panthers’ third line, but he does play on the second unit of the power play.

Kent Hughes will need strong arguments to convince Panthers GM Bill Zito to part with his center.

Everything may depend on whether Sam Bennett returns this summer.

Logically, Anton Lundell should eventually move up to the Panthers’ second line, especially if Bennett leaves. We’ll see what happens.

He seems stuck on the third line there.

In short, the question becomes: what would it cost to acquire him?

Lundell is also under contract in Florida for another five seasons with an annual salary of $5 million.

Do you like this idea?