The Montreal Canadiens are facing a dilemma that’s quietly turning into a crisis—and the solution could come in the form of a blockbuster trade that no one saw coming.

With Kirby Dach’s future as the team’s second-line center growing more uncertain by the day, and injuries casting a shadow over his once-promising career, the entire organization is feeling the pressure to act fast.

Rumors are swirling, and the latest proposal from NHL analyst Cole Shelton is sending shockwaves through the fanbase: a bold move to bring veteran Ryan O’Reilly to Montreal.

Could this trade be the answer the Canadiens desperately need, or would it be a costly gamble that reshapes their future?

The suggested deal, involving young talents Owen Beck and Jayden Struble plus a coveted draft pick, has set off heated debates about the team’s direction and priorities. Is O’Reilly, with his proven track record and leadership, the perfect short-term fix—or just a temporary bandage for a deeper wound?

As the front office weighs its options and the clock ticks toward the new season, fans are left wondering: will Montreal pull the trigger on a trade that could change everything? The full story is more complex than it seems.

Apr 6, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Nashville Predators center Ryan O'Reilly (90) skates with the puck against the Montreal Canadiens during the second period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

The uncertainty surrounding Kirby Dach’s ability to eventually become the Montreal Canadiens’ second-line center is starting to stir up conversations.

It’s even beginning to give the entire organization a headache.

After a promising first season with the Canadiens in 2022-2023, the now 24-year-old athlete has been injured more often than not over the past two seasons, and the latest news regarding him is not very encouraging.

For all these reasons, Kent Hughes should begin looking for a short-term solution at the center position, and a trade proposal has just been put forward by a journalist.

The Canadiens acquiring center Ryan O’Reilly, in exchange notably for Jayden Struble and young Owen Beck: the suggestion by Cole Shelton

As reported by Cole Shelton, who works for the outlet Heavy and also for CBS Sports, the Canadiens’ general manager could give his counterpart with the Nashville Predators, Barry Trotz, a call to discuss this proposal.

To Montreal:

Ryan O’Reilly

To Nashville:

Owen Beck

Jayden Struble

2026 second-round pick

According to him, O’Reilly would be the perfect candidate for the second-line center position, and since he would be entering the third year of a four-year deal at an annual salary of $4.5 million, it shouldn’t hurt the team’s salary cap too much in the medium term.

He tallied 53 points last year, but he had a 69-point season in 2023-2024 during his first year with the Predators.

At 34 years old, O’Reilly still has good hockey left in him, and while waiting for Dach’s eventual breakout and the arrival of Michael Hage, he would be a perfect center to support Nick Suzuki.