Josh Anderson Poised for Montreal Canadiens Exit Amid Trade Rumors

Montreal Canadiens forward Josh Anderson is reportedly on the verge of departing the team, with trade discussions intensifying as the offseason approaches. The 30-year-old winger, known for his physical play and speed, has been a subject of trade rumors for some time. Recent reports indicate that the Canadiens are actively exploring trade options involving Anderson, aiming to alleviate salary cap constraints and potentially acquire assets for the future.

Anderson’s tenure with the Canadiens has been marked by fluctuating performance. While he has demonstrated moments of brilliance, including a notable 27-goal season, his consistency has been questioned. In the 2024–25 season, Anderson recorded 15 goals and 12 assists over 69 games, contributing to the team’s offensive efforts. However, his defensive liabilities and a minus-21 rating have raised concerns among management and fans alike

The financial aspect of Anderson’s contract complicates potential trade scenarios. Signed through the 2025–26 season at a $5.5 million annual cap hit, his deal is considered burdensome for a team like Montreal, which is looking to manage its salary cap efficiently. Reports suggest that the Canadiens are willing to retain a portion of Anderson’s salary to facilitate a trade, but this approach is limited by league rules, as teams can only retain salary on a maximum of three contracts at a time .

One potential destination for Anderson is the Calgary Flames. Trade rumors have linked the two teams, with discussions centered around Anderson’s fit within Calgary’s lineup. The Flames are reportedly interested in adding a player of Anderson’s caliber to bolster their forward group. While no official trade has been announced, the ongoing dialogue suggests that a move could be imminent .

As the Canadiens look to reshape their roster for the future, parting ways with Anderson could be a strategic move to free up cap space and invest in younger talent. While his departure marks the end of an era for the team, it also opens the door for new opportunities and directions. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring developments in the coming weeks to see if a trade involving Josh Anderson comes to fruition.