The Montreal Canadiens have once again made headlines with a daring summer move that could reshape the team’s future. As the dust settles on a blockbuster trade orchestrated by Kent Hughes, fans and analysts alike are left wondering just how impactful this deal will be for the Habs.

On July 1st, a quiet transaction between Montreal and St. Louis sent shockwaves through the hockey world, as Quebec-born Zachary Bolduc joined the Canadiens in exchange for promising defenseman Logan Mailloux.

But there’s more to this story than meets the eye. Early reactions from insiders and coaches hint at a deeper significance behind the swap, with whispers of untapped potential and game-changing talent.

Blues head coach Jim Montgomery’s heartfelt comments about Bolduc reveal a player with rare qualities—strength, intensity, and a “lethal shot” that could electrify Montreal’s offense.

Yet, as Mailloux gears up for a major role in St. Louis, questions linger about who truly came out ahead in this trade.

Is this the masterstroke that will define Kent Hughes’ legacy? Or is there another twist waiting to be uncovered? The answers might surprise you, and the full story is just beginning to unfold.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: NHL

On July 1st, Kent Hughes, in my opinion, pulled off one of his best trades by acquiring Quebec native Zachary Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues.

It was, of course, in exchange for Logan Mailloux.

With this personnel move, the Canadiens landed a potential 25-goal scorer, maybe even 30, in return for a defenseman who was still very much a project.

Just a few weeks after the deal, based on everything we’re hearing, I really believe we can say this was a successful trade for the Habs!

Zachary Bolduc Will Clearly Be Missed by Jim Montgomery: The Coach Comments on the Trade

In an interview on 98.5 Sports, Blues head coach Jim Montgomery shared his thoughts on his former player.

“Zachary Bolduc is a very good team player and a great person who will work for the team.

He’s very strong on his skates, he may look a bit small but he delivers incredible hits.

His shot is unbelievable, excellent one-timer, great snapshot, and he can beat goaltenders from the top of the circles.

But what I like most about him is the way he works.

It’s very easy for a coach to talk to him because he’s very intense, he listens well, and he’ll work for you and the team.”

– Jim Montgomery

From his words, it’s clear the Montreal-born coach doesn’t have much negative to say about the Canadiens’ new #76.

Reading between the lines, you can also tell that Bolduc will be missed.

We already can’t wait to see him wearing the Bleu-Blanc-Rouge!

In that same interview, Montgomery also confirmed that his new defenseman, Mailloux, will begin the season in the Blues’ top six on defense.

In my opinion, had it been otherwise, it would have only proven beyond a doubt that the Canadiens won this trade handily!