As the summer winds down and the National Hockey League stirs back to life, the buzz of trade rumors and last-minute signings is growing louder by the day. Teams across the league are scrambling to finalize their rosters, making strategic moves that could define their seasons. Amid this whirlwind of activity, one name keeps surfacing in conversations among executives and insiders: Josh Anderson.

With the recent signings of two high-profile wingers and a dramatic shift in the market for power forwards, Anderson’s value has suddenly soared—leaving many to wonder just how high his stock might climb before the puck drops in October.

But it’s not just his on-ice performance that’s turning heads. There are whispers about Anderson’s impact during last season’s playoffs, his unique playing style, and even the surprising affordability of his contract in today’s NHL landscape.

Could this be the perfect storm for a blockbuster trade, or is there something even bigger brewing behind the scenes? As Kent Hughes faces mounting pressure and rival teams circle, the fate of one of Montreal’s most talked-about forwards hangs in the balance. The full story might just upend everything you thought you knew about the Canadiens’ plans this year.

Dec 21, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher (11) celebrates with teammates including forward Josh Anderson (17) after scoring a goal against the Detroit Red Wings during the second period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

The action has started to pick up again in the National Hockey League as we approach the end of August.

More and more trade discussions have begun to pick up again.

And some teams have even already confirmed acquisitions.

Notably, we’re talking about the Colorado Avalanche here.

It was also revealed that top target Marco Rossi has also signed a new deal.

In short, the action is back!

Two more wingers sign in the NHL: Josh Anderson becomes a rare commodity

Sure enough, the two signings announced earlier this week once again help increase Josh Anderson’s value on the trade market.

First, there is strong demand!

Many teams are currently trying to acquire rugged wingers (power forwards) exactly like Josh Anderson, especially for the playoffs, but there are virtually none left available on the market.

Second, Josh Anderson impressed everyone during the most recent NHL playoffs.

That’s what an executive recently mentioned in an interview with RG Media, and it’s something we could all easily see.

Third, with the drastic increase in the NHL salary cap, Josh Anderson’s annual salary ($5.5 million per year) has practically become a real bargain.

Anderson, 31 years old, recorded 27 points in 81 games last season, along with 1 point in 5 playoff games (only 20 penalty minutes in the playoffs).

Personally, even if his value has really gone up on the market, I truly believe Kent Hughes should simply keep him here, especially for the upcoming playoff run.