On Saturday, the Montreal Canadiens began the new year with a clash against the Florida Panthers. If the two teams are clearly moving in very different directions, they could, however, be linked to each other in the next trade rumors.
Indeed, according to Pierre LeBrun at Hockey 360 on Saturday, the Panthers would be very interested in acquiring the services of defenseman Ben Chiarot, so they would intend to contact the CH shortly to inquire about its availability.
Bill Zito, general manager of the Panthers, would like to add experience and robustness to his already well-stocked defence brigade, and Chiarot, whose present contract will expire next summer, is therefore a perfect candidate to fulfill this role.
Aged 30, Chiarot could possibly bring back at least one first-round pick to the Habs, as he attracts more and more interest through the NHL. It will be interesting to see what Jeff Gorton does with his veteran defenseman.
