Trade rumors and behind-the-scenes negotiations are nothing new in the NHL, but every so often, a subtle revelation sparks a wave of curiosity among fans and analysts alike.

The Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders recently completed a significant trade involving promising defenseman Noah Dobson, with draft picks and forward Emil Heineman heading to Long Island. Yet, as new details emerge, it seems that the story behind this blockbuster deal is far from fully told.

A recent Q&A session with respected journalist Marco D’Amico has quietly unveiled a fascinating twist—one that could have major implications for the Canadiens’ future.

The hint? Another young forward, not previously disclosed, was offered up by Montreal’s general manager Kent Hughes during the Dobson negotiations. Who was this mystery player, and why did the Islanders ultimately choose Heineman instead?

As speculation grows around the Canadiens’ willingness to move key prospects, fans are left wondering how these decisions will shape the team’s roster in the months ahead.

With a talented young center now revealed as trade bait, the stakes are higher than ever. The full story, and what it means for Montreal’s future, is just beginning to unfold.

Photo of Canadiens and Islanders

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

Journalist Marco D’Amico recently held an interesting little Q&A session, and he slipped in a small scoop.

As you know, this past June, the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders completed a major trade involving Noah Dobson.

In addition to draft picks, forward Emil Heineman was sent to Long Island.

Today, we have an update!

Another forward offered by Kent Hughes to the New York Islanders in the Noah Dobson trade has just been revealed

Check out the question..

“Are the Habs still high on Beck and do you see him potentially making the team out of camp? Could he be part of a trade for a 2C?”

And Marco D’Amico’s response..

“They still like him, but he was one of the players offered in the Dobson discussions.

It could go either way depending on his play.”

That’s really interesting!

So now we know that young Owen Beck was offered to the Islanders in the Noah Dobson trade, but they apparently preferred Emil Heineman.

I can’t wait to see if time proves them right, but this clearly shows that Kent Hughes is currently willing to include Beck in a trade.

Owen Beck, 21 years old, is a right-handed center standing 6 feet tall and weighing 199 pounds, who was drafted 33rd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2022.

He recorded 44 points in 64 games last season with the Laval Rocket, including 15 goals, and added 1 point in 12 games with the Canadiens.