Hughes and the Canadiens Could Explore a Trade Package That Would Land Them a First-Round Pick
As the trade deadline approaches on March 7, everyone is wondering about the plans of the Montreal Canadiens' management. Will Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes lean more toward selling or buying?
In recent months, the two executives have created some uncertainty about their intentions.
While Hughes has mentioned wanting to stick to the plan, for his part, has stated that it is not impossible for the administration to help the players as a way of rewarding their efforts.
"You won't see us trading young players.. if there's an opportunity to help these guys, they've earned it."
Jeff Gorton
According to one of his sources, Kent Hughes has already explored the league to see if he could receive a first-round pick by packaging Jake Evans and Joel Armia together in a trade.
"This is an idea we had discussed before the Four Nations Face-Off break. According to an NHL source, the Canadiens' goal would be to acquire a first-round pick in the next draft.
The Pittsburgh Penguins and San Jose Sharks have already set the market by trading two rental players in exchange for a first-round pick."
Arpon Basu
Here are the trades Basu is referring to:
Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks traded
Mikael Granlund and defenseman
Cody Ceci, with the Dallas Stars sending a 2025 first-round pick in return.
A Big Gap Between Jake Evans' Camp and the Canadiens, According to Tony Marinaro
According to the host's sources, Evans is seeking a five-year contract worth $20 million.
"What I'm hearing is that Jake Evans' camp is asking for a five-year contract at $4 million per season.
It sounds like they're far apart.
What have the Canadiens offered, in terms of money and years?
I don't know, but it looks like there has been no movement.
It seems that the Evans camp is not optimistic.
It seems that, according to them, he's as good as gone.
And even so, Jake, if you look at him lately, he doesn't look happy."
Tony Marinaro, on BPM Sports
Based on Basu's comments, it appears the Canadiens are not willing to meet Evans' asking price.
Therefore, it wouldn't be surprising if the forward is traded before March 7..
Previously on HabsFanatics
POLL |
MARS 2 | 2288 ANSWERS Hughes and the Canadiens Could Explore a Trade Package That Would Land Them a First-Round Pick Would you trade Jake Evans and Joel Armia together for a 2025 first-round pick? |
Yes | 1166 | 51 % |
No | 1122 | 49 % |
List of polls |