Habs/Panthers trade last season: a major development is announced and could affect the ranking of the pick acquired in the Ben Chiarot transaction

As you know, last season, Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes made a solid deal with the Florida Panthers.

As a reminder:




Smilanic, 20, was drafted 74th overall by the Panthers in 2020.

We were talking about this a lot before the season started, but it's worth remembering and mentioning to keep a close eye on the Panthers' season.

If they finish low in the NHL standings, it will have a direct impact on the Tricolore, who could end up with a second high draft pick. Plus, we're talking about an exceptional and very talented crop.

Currently, the Panthers are in the last playoff position in the East, but they have games in hand.

They are at risk of missing the playoffs, but let's wait and see. The season is still young.

A major development

In the last few minutes, the Florida Panthers announced major news and a big turnaround:


Wow a huge surprise return to the game.

So Ekblad, who was expected to miss months of action, will be back much sooner than expected, and that's a major addition to their lineup.

This could have a very positive effect on their position in the standings. Stay tuned!

Ekblad, 26 years old, 6 feet 4 inches and 215 pounds, was drafted 1st overall in 2014. He had 57 points (15 goals) in 61 games last season and was limited to three games this season.

With this news, the Panthers are likely to move up in the standings.