The Montreal Canadiens are gearing up for a busy summer, with General Manager Kent Hughes planning to use the team’s deep prospect pool, particularly in defence, to strengthen the forward lines. One name frequently mentioned in trade talks is Arber Xhekaj. Despite being in the final year of his three-year, $2,485,000 contract, Xhekaj remains a crucial part of Montreal’s plans, and GM Kent Hughes has shown little interest in trading him. According to David Pagnotta from The Fourth Period, the Calgary Flames have expressed interest in Xhekaj, but only an overwhelming offer could convince the Canadiens to part with him.
“For the Habs, Arber Xhekaj is pretty much off the table. As I reported last week, teams have continued to ask about him, including the Calgary Flames — but Hughes isn’t interested in moving him. I’m sure he’ll change his mind if someone is willing to really overpay, but for now, Xhekaj is part of Montreal’s plans moving forward,” Pagnotta explained.
With Nick Suzuki firmly established as the top centre, attention has shifted to how Montreal will address its depth at the position. Kirby Dach is expected to secure the second-line centre role next season, while Alex Newhook may either transition to the wing or take over third-line centre duties. This shift indicates that the Canadiens may not be seeking another centre, despite acquiring centremen in the last two NHL drafts.
The upcoming NHL Draft, scheduled for June 28-29 at The Sphere in Las Vegas, is expected to be significant for the Montreal Canadiens. Ranked third among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Cayden Lindstrom is high on Montreal’s draft board. If Lindstrom is available at the fifth-overall slot, he could be a key acquisition. However, if he is not, Hughes might consider trading the pick, a move that could have significant implications for the team’s strategy.
Montreal Canadiens targeting multiple forwards
Kent Hughes has made it clear that while the Montreal Canadiens are exploring options to strengthen their forward lines, some players are off-limits. Arber Xhekaj, Kaiden Guhle, Lane Hutson, Logan Mailloux, and David Reinbacher are unlikely to be moved unless a blockbuster deal emerges. However, other defensemen like Jordan Harris, Jayden Struble, Justin Barron, Mattias Norlinder, and Adam Engstrom could be used as trade assets. The Canadiens prefer to keep these players but acknowledge that they may have to part with some to acquire the right forward talent.
Several forwards have been linked to the Canadiens in trade rumours. Anaheim’s Trevor Zegras, who is reportedly seeking a move from Orange County, could be a prime target. Ottawa’s Josh Norris, despite injury concerns, has also been mentioned, though a trade between the two division rivals seems unlikely. Minnesota’s Marco Rossi and Columbus’ Cole Sillinger and Kent Johnson are other potential targets that align with Montreal’s strategy of acquiring young, talented forwards.
Additionally, the Montreal Canadiens are likely to shop Christian Dvorak, David Savard, and Joel Armia this summer. All three are on expiring contracts and could be used to free up cap space or as part of larger trade packages. The Canadiens’ ample cap space provides them with the flexibility to make significant moves.
