Montreal Hockey Fanatics has no direct affiliation to the Montreal Canadiens, NHL or NHLPA
Predators Reportedly Open to Trading 40-Goal Scorer Who Could Be a Fit for the Canadiens
On the opening day of free agency, July 1, 2024, the Nashville Predators stole the spotlight. With the signings of Steven Stamkos, Brady Skjei, and Jonathan Marchessault, they added major reinforcements.
In the end, however, those signings didn't deliver the expected results, as the Predators endured a miserable 2024-2025 season, finishing 28th overall in the standings.
That said, Predators GM Barry Trotz has already stated he won't hesitate to initiate a rebuild if results don't follow next season. In that context, the Quebec-born forward could be one of the first players sacrificed.
RUMOR: Jonathan Marchessault Could Be Traded Mid-Summer and Be the First Player Sacrificed by the Predators, Says Nick Kypreos
That's exactly what Nick Kypreos said on the matter, and the Sportsnet insider didn't hesitate to mention Marchessault as a potential contract buyout candidate if the Predators plan to cut down on payroll.
The cost to acquire him wouldn't be very high.
"If [the Predators] have a chance to move one of their expensive, long-term contracts, Jonathan Marchessault would be the most likely."
- Nick Kypreos via Sportsnet
- Nick Kypreos via Sportsnet
Let's not forget that Jonathan Marchessault signed a five-year contract worth $5.5 million per year on July 1.
After scoring 42 goals with the Golden Knights in 2023-2024, his production was cut in half last season, finishing with just 21 goals and 56 points in 78 games.
At 34 years old, he can still help an NHL team in the short term, and if the Predators were to buy out his contract, he could become an intriguing option for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.
A potential opportunity could present itself to the Habs in this situation - and much sooner than expected.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 6 | 2375 ANSWERS Predators Reportedly Open to Trading 40-Goal Scorer Who Could Be a Fit for the Canadiens Would you trade Joshua Roy for Jonathan Marchessault? | ||
| Yes | 1438 | 60.5 % |
| No | 937 | 39.5 % |
| List of polls | ||