There is a palpable BUZZ rippling through the NHL rumor mill, and this time, it’s the Vancouver Canucks and Montreal Canadiens at the center of the storm. Whispers from respected Vancouver journalist Thomas Drance have ignited intense speculation about a potential blockbuster trade that could shake up both franchises—and perhaps even the league itself.

While the details remain closely guarded, sources suggest that the Canucks are more active on the trade market than ever, with management reportedly prepared to pull the trigger on a deal at a moment’s notice. What’s fueling this urgency, and who could be at the heart of such a high-stakes move? All signs are pointing toward a major shakeup in the team’s core, with insiders linking the name of a prominent Montreal forward to Vancouver’s wish list.

But why now? And why this player? As the Canucks scour the league for the perfect fit to bolster their lineup, the Canadiens may be facing a pivotal decision of their own—one that could alter the direction of their rebuild. Is a seismic trade truly on the horizon, and what could it mean for both teams? The answers may surprise you.

Photo of Canucks and Canadiens

Photo credit: NHL

Vancouver journalist Thomas Drance reported some interesting information regarding the Canucks and their activity on the trade market.

According to what he has learned, the Canucks are extremely active on the market right now, and he even adds that they are ready to accept a trade as soon as today, “if they are offered a big second- or third-line center.”

That is interesting.

Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach is linked to the Vancouver Canucks: they would accept a trade for a player like him.

This has indeed led some insiders to link the name of Kirby Dach to the Vancouver Canucks, and it is obvious that he could interest them.

They are desperately searching for a second- or third-line center, so they are clearly ready to pay.

Should the Habs trade Kirby Dach?

Personally, I really think it depends on what we get in return, but yes, I would be willing to do it for the right offer.

Thomas Drance: Re Canucks: “The club is actively kicking tires and exploring its options. Vancouver would execute a trade today if the deal returned a credible middle-six centre”

“Two players who could be looking for fresh starts may be Alex Newhook and Kirby Dach. Both can play centre and be physical, but both have taken a step back with the Habs. With Ivan Demidov now in Montreal, along with the acquisition of Zach Bolduc, it’s conceivable that Newhook or Dach could be dealt.” – Trevor Beggs

Kirby Dach fits that description.

Dach, 24 years old, is a big center at 6-foot-4 and 221 pounds who was the third overall pick of the Chicago Blackhawks in 2019.

He collected 22 points in 57 games last season, 2 points in 2 games in 2023-2024, as well as 38 points in 58 games in 2022-2023.