Pittsburgh and Montreal Talking Trade

The Pittsburgh Penguins and Montreal Canadiens normally would play each other a number of times during the regular season, however with the new divisional alignments for the 2020-21 NHL season, they will avoid each other until potentially the playoffs. While their rivalry was sparked last playoffs, it doesn't mean they aren't open to doing business with each other.

Mario Lemieux and Marc Bergevin are the best of friends so it makes sense the two teams would be connected in one way shape or form. If you ask Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the two have recently connected on a trade surrounding Habs defenseman, Victor Mete.

Mete finally saw his first action of the season on Tuesday and played 17:45 of ice-time. The 22-year-old versatile defender is in the final year of his contract, making $735,000 this season and will be a restricted free-agent at season's end. 

The Penguins are currently essentially capped out and any money coming in will have to be sent out. Perhaps the likes of Sam Lafferty or Teddy Blueger who both make under $800,000 would interest the Canadiens. 

Per Friedman's report: 

It will surprise no one to know Pittsburgh was one of the teams that asked about Mete. (It’s believed they also poked around Toronto for Travis Dermott. Basically, if you’re a defenceman, they asked about you.) The Canadiens can’t take back money, so it’s basically dollar in, dollar out. Plus, they do like Mete

Don't be surprised if these two teams get something done in the very near future as with the border crossing any trade today means you receive the player in your lineup in roughly two weeks. The Penguins need help now. 

Photo credit:   David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire