Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes is actively exploring trade options that align with the team’s long-term strategy.
On Monday, Dave Pagnotta from The Fourth Period shared insights on TSN Radio Montreal, highlighting that the Canadiens are looking to make moves to strengthen the team as the season progresses.
Pagnotta stressed that any player acquired would need to be a young, controllable talent—ideally a forward who could fit into a middle-six role.
This aligns with Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, who recently noted that Montreal is seeking a forward with some grit.
According to Pagnotta, Hughes is focused on adding a player who complements Montreal’s developing core, rather than pursuing short-term fixes at the cost of future assets, like draft picks or existing young players.
“This isn’t going to be a mortgage-the-future type of situation,” Pagnotta said. “The goal is to find complementary pieces that work with the young core and align with the team’s current direction.”
While the primary focus seems to be on forwards, Hughes is open to the right deal should it arise.
Montreal’s objective appears to be reinforcing its physical presence without compromising the progress the organization has made. For context, the Habs made it to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021, though they were ultimately defeated by the Tampa Bay Lightning in a 4-1 series.
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