“Montreal Canadiens’ Rebuilding Quest: Trade Candidates and Strategic Moves Ahead of the 2024 NHL Deadline”

The Montreal Canadiens are poised to miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season, prompting general manager Kent Hughes to redirect his focus towards enhancing the future of the franchise. With an eye on improving the team’s prospects, Hughes is expected to make multiple moves in the upcoming weeks. The objective is to position the Canadiens as a consistent presence in the playoff scene, potentially as early as the next season. While there are certain players deemed untouchable on the current roster, Hughes remains open to innovative strategies to revitalize the team. Here are four trade candidates to monitor as the Canadiens embark on a re-tooling journey leading up to the 2024 NHL Deadline.

Sean Monahan

A prime target for numerous teams is Sean Monahan, a pending free agent enjoying a stellar season while maintaining a minimal cap hit. Hailing from Brampton, ON, Monahan has accumulated an impressive 24 points in 41 games this season, all while being owed just $1.98 million against the cap. Notably, he holds no trade protection, making him an attractive option for teams in pursuit.

Monahan is likely to be a sought-after asset for contending teams, given his versatility as a forward who can adeptly play both down the middle and on the wing if required. With 21 points in 30 postseason games, he brings valuable playoff experience to the table. Importantly, Monahan has showcased durability throughout the current season, bouncing back from various injuries that had plagued his career. Anticipate a significant move involving Monahan, with teams likely willing to pay a substantial price for his services.

Tanner Pearson

Yet another seasoned forward with a wealth of experience, Tanner Pearson finds himself currently on the injured reserve due to an upper-body injury. Expected to return sometime in February before the trade deadline, Pearson, a pending free agent, commands a salary nearly double that of Monahan, standing at $3.25 million. Notably, he holds a seven-team modified no-trade clause, providing him some influence over potential trade destinations.

In his inaugural season with Montreal, the 31-year-old has contributed four goals and eight points in 27 games. While he may serve as more of a depth option for contending teams, Pearson could prove valuable on the third line and potentially step into a higher role in case of injuries.

Any deal involving the frequently injured forward will likely require Montreal to retain some salary, potentially enhancing their return in the process. The Canadiens could sweeten the deal significantly by doing so, possibly securing a mid-round pick or mid-level prospect in return.

Jake Allen

The goaltending landscape in the NHL is facing challenges with several starting goalies succumbing to injuries this week. Jake Allen stands out as one of the most desirable goalies available in the market, presenting himself as a seasoned veteran capable of serving as a reliable 1-B option.

The Edmonton Oilers have expressed interest, and discussions appear to be ongoing. The New Jersey Devils and Carolina Hurricanes are also potential suitors. With an impressive career track record, Allen is under contract through the next season with a cap hit of $3.8 million. Notably, he has provided a list of seven teams to Hughes, indicating his preferences regarding potential trades.

The likelihood of Allen being traded before the deadline is high. If included in a package deal with Monahan, the Canadiens could secure substantial assets, setting them up well for the upcoming season.

David Savard

A notable Canadiens player drawing significant interest is the right-handed defenseman David Savard. Similar to Allen, Savard is under contract through the upcoming season, with a salary of $3.5 million. Notably, he lacks any trade protection, and there have been numerous reports suggesting that both the Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs have reached out to the Habs to explore potential deals.

In the 19 games since his return from injury this season, Savard has notched an impressive 10 points. Renowned for his resilience, versatility in various game situations, and a newfound offensive flair, Savard’s stock is currently at its peak. His experience of 57 Stanley Cup Playoff games further enhances his appeal. It’s anticipated that Hughes will seek to capitalize on Savard’s heightened value in the market.