Amidst the electric atmosphere of the NHL playoffs, the Montreal Canadiens find themselves at a crossroads, with fans and analysts alike eagerly speculating about the team’s next move. While the action on the ice continues to captivate audiences, attention in Montreal has shifted to the front office, where crucial decisions are being made that could shape the franchise’s future for years to come.

With rumors swirling about high-profile trades and potential acquisitions, the Canadiens’ offseason strategy is under the microscope, and every statement from management is dissected for clues.

Recent comments from the organization’s leadership have only intensified the intrigue, hinting at a clear vision for the kind of player the team hopes to add. As the front office charts a course for success, fans are left wondering which names will ultimately join the storied roster—and which familiar rumors can finally be put to rest.

In a city where hockey is more than just a game, the stakes are always high, and every decision carries the weight of passionate expectation. As the summer approaches, the spotlight is firmly fixed on Montreal, and the anticipation for what comes next has never been greater.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Even though the NHL playoffs are in full swing and we’re seeing some exciting hockey, Montreal Canadiens fans want more.

Fans are already focusing on the team’s possible acquisitions during the offseason.

Among the names that have circulated over the past few months is Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks.

He nearly became a Canadien during the 2024 Draft in a trade involving Logan Mailloux, but due to the selection of Ivan Demidov, the deal fell through.

When the Canadiens’ management held their end-of-season press conference, Jeff Gorton addressed the media, and the organization’s Vice President of Hockey Operations stated that he and Kent Hughes are looking for players who can bring size and toughness.

“Jeff Gorton’s shopping list for the Montreal Canadiens.

Adding players with compete, size and skill.

Weighs the importance of compete and size in his discussions with Kent Hughes on how to improve the team.”

Marco D’Amico

A response from Jeff Gorton that settles the Trevor Zegras situation

We can therefore conclude that the idea of acquiring Trevor Zegras no longer seems to be in the plans, and that the Canadiens intend to get bigger.

“Would the Canadiens consider acquiring another strictly offensive player with a smaller frame?

The answer is no.”

We saw during the series against the Washington Capitals that the team got pushed around quite a bit, and it makes sense to think that Gorton and Hughes are looking for players who can fill that gap.

They will want “playoff-type players.”

This settles the Trevor Zegras situation.

He will not be one of Kent Hughes’ and the Montreal Canadiens’ offseason acquisitions.