As the Montreal Canadiens ramp up preparations for the coming season, a sense of restless anticipation hangs over the team and its passionate fanbase.

Despite several shrewd moves this summer, including the arrivals of Zachary Bolduc, Samuel Blais, and Joe Veleno, one glaring issue remains unsolved—a true second-line center who can anchor the team’s offensive ambitions.

The front office, led by Kent Hughes, has shown a willingness to shake up the roster, but the solution to this persistent problem remains elusive.

Now, fresh whispers from the NHL rumor mill suggest that a new opportunity may be on the horizon, one that could dramatically reshape the Canadiens’ top-six forward group.

Recent reports hint at the possible availability of Casey Mittelstadt, a talented playmaker whose name has been circulating in trade talks.

But is Mittelstadt the missing piece, or just another name in a long line of speculative targets? With the season fast approaching, the stakes are higher than ever, and the Canadiens’ next move could set the tone for months to come.

What are the hidden factors driving these rumors—and could Kent Hughes be preparing a surprise that no one saw coming? The answers lie just beneath the surface.

Montreal Canadiens Logo (left) Boston Bruins Logo (right)

Photo credit: All Habs

The Montreal Canadiens are still searching for a center player for the second line, and a new top-6 player might become available.

Kent Hughes has done a lot of work for the Canadiens this summer, and the team still needs to solve a major problem.

They have yet to secure a long-term second-line center, raising questions about how management will address this issue.

With the addition of Zachary Bolduc, Samuel Blais, and Joe Veleno, the team now has plenty of depth for the third and fourth lines.

However, a highly talented top-6 forward could be available on the market.

Casey Mittelstadt Could Be Available on the Market

Journalist James Murphy stated that Casey Mittelstadt might be available according to several sources.

“Casey Mittelstadt could potentially be on the move, according to sources”

– James Murphy

“I don’t know how many rumors he’s been in, but I’ve been hearing [Casey] Mittelstadt could be on the move again since before the Bruins season even ended,» an NHL executive told RG recently. «There was a common feeling that he wasn’t their main target when they traded for him; Zellers and the second-round draft pick were.”

Looking at Mittelstadt’s stats, he has yet to prove he can consistently play on a top offensive line.

In a total of 438 games, the forward has collected 236 points.

He had two good seasons with the Buffalo Sabres in 2022-23 and 2023-24, scoring 59 and 47 points respectively.

He also had strong moments during the 2024 playoffs, earning 9 points in 11 games.

Mittelstadt is a playmaker who could fit well into the Canadiens’ lineup.

He is a passer, and the team has several goal scorers including Patrik Laine and Cole Caufield.

The price to acquire him wouldn’t be high, raising the question of whether Kent Hughes would be interested.

Finally, the season is approaching fast, and we can expect to see several roster moves before it begins.