As the NHL offseason drama heats up, all eyes are on the Montreal Canadiens and their next big move. With the 2025 NHL Draft and the opening of free agency just weeks away, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch among fans and insiders alike. The rumor mill has been swirling with speculation, and now, a particularly intriguing name has emerged at the center of it all: Claude Giroux.

The veteran Ottawa Senators forward, known for his leadership and playmaking ability, has reportedly caught the attention of Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes. While Giroux may no longer be in his prime, his consistency and experience make him a valuable asset for any team with playoff ambitions. As whispers of a potential offer from Montreal grow louder, the hockey world is abuzz with excitement and curiosity.

Could Giroux be the missing piece that propels the Canadiens to new heights? Or will he remain a cornerstone in Ottawa? One thing is certain: with the stakes higher than ever and the future of several franchises hanging in the balance, this developing story is one that fans won’t want to miss.

Apr 22, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators forward Claude Giroux (28) skates with the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period in game two of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

The NHL rumor season is in full swing, especially around the Montreal Canadiens, but we’ll soon be getting some answers.

Believe it or not, the 2025 NHL Draft is fast approaching, along with the opening of free agency.

All of that is less than a month away.

Anyway, still on the topic of rumors, we’ve just heard a good one involving Kent Hughes and a well-known Ottawa Senators forward.

“According to league officials interviewed by Garrioch, the Montreal Canadiens are among the clubs interested in the veteran’s services.”

– Bruce Garrioch

Claude Giroux on Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens’ Radar

As reported by the excellent Jessica Lapinski of TVA Sports and the Journal de Québec, Kent Hughes indeed appears to have Giroux in his sights.

If he becomes available in July, don’t be surprised if an offer is already ready in Montreal for the veteran.

Interesting!

Giroux may not be the player he was in his prime, but he remains effective and an outstanding leader.

“He was good last year, he was really good on faceoffs. He no longer has the speed to play center, but he’s an effective player who can contribute,” the executive told the Sun.

This will definitely be a story to keep an eye on for Canadiens fans.

And you, would you like to see Claude Giroux end up with the Montreal Canadiens?

Now 37 years old, Giroux recorded 50 points in 81 games this season with the Ottawa Senators, after scoring 64 points in 82 games the previous season.

He also added a solid 5 points in 6 playoff games against the Toronto Maple Leafs.