Canadiens Entering Hard-Sell Mode Ahead of Trade Deadline

As the NHL season heads into its final stretch before the trade deadline, the Montreal Canadiens find themselves in a difficult position. With a 1-7-1 record in their last nine games before the 4 Nations Face-Off break, their playoff hopes have all but faded. Now six points behind the Detroit Red Wings for the final wild-card spot—and with four teams standing between them—the Canadiens are shifting into seller mode.

Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette has described Montreal as being in a “hard sell” position, with general manager Kent Hughes expected to be active in moving pieces ahead of the deadline. Several pending unrestricted free agents appear to be on the trade block, including Jake Evans, Joel Armia, David Savard, and Christian Dvorak.

Jake Evans, in particular, has garnered interest from multiple teams. TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun reported earlier this month that Evans and the Canadiens have exchanged contract numbers but are not close on an extension. As a result, a trade seems increasingly likely. The 28-year-old centre has recorded 11 goals and 27 points over 56 games this season and is in the final year of a three-year, $5.1 million contract with an average annual value of $1.7 million.

Joel Armia, 31, is another potential trade piece. The veteran forward has 10 goals and 24 points in 56 games while carrying a cap hit of $3.4 million. With his experience and ability to contribute offensively, he could be an attractive option for teams looking for depth scoring.

David Savard, 34, has also emerged as a trade candidate. The veteran defenseman, who won a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2021, has one goal and 10 points in 50 games this season. Savard is fifth among Canadiens defensemen in average ice time at 17:45 per game and carries a cap hit of $3.5 million on his expiring contract. Contending teams in need of a steady, physical presence on the blue line could target him as a depth addition.

Christian Dvorak has the highest cap hit among the potential trade pieces at $4.45 million. The 29-year-old centre has registered six goals and 17 points in 56 games this season. His ability to play a two-way game and provide secondary scoring could make him a valuable addition for teams in need of centre depth.

While the Canadiens are expected to move several assets, Brendan Gallagher is unlikely to be among them. The veteran winger carries a hefty $6.5 million cap hit through 2026-27, making a trade difficult. Meanwhile, Josh Anderson could draw interest, but Hughes is reportedly unwilling to move him unless the right offer comes along.

As the trade deadline looms, Montreal’s focus has clearly shifted toward asset management and the future, with key decisions expected in the coming weeks.