NHL Rumors: Montreal Canadiens Shopping Multiple Veterans for Trade

The Montreal Canadiens appear headed for a rebuild after their latest slew of management changes. Owner Geoff Molson recently met with the media to discuss what's next for his franchise and he certainly didn't shy away from the fact major changes could be on the way.

Friedman: "I do think we could be headed to a big time change of direction from them".
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) November 30, 2021

This season is certainly tank mode in Montreal as they sit 6-16-2 good for third last in the Eastern Conference. Once a general manager is in place, which sounds like could happen before the end of the week, expect to see some moves.

Canadiens Veterans Who Could Be Dealt

Brendan Gallagher: A heart and soul type of player, this would certainly begin a culture change around the Canadiens. Marc Bergevin took a lot of heat for signing the pesky undersized winger to a six-year deal worth $6.5 million per season, as Gallagher's career high is 54 points and that hasn't been done in four years. So far in 23 games this season, the former fifth-round pick has 10 points. If the Canadiens have a fire sale, expect to see Gallagher one of the first to go.

Mike Hoffman: The veteran sniper is in his first season in Montreal and he can't seem to stay healthy. He's signed for two more seasons at $4.5 million and doesn't hold any trade protection. In the 13 games Hoffman has played for the Canadiens, he's put up seven points. The 32-year-old is a sniper who other teams would love to scoop up for the right price. Look for Hoffman to be shipped out once Montreal hits the rebuild button.

Jeff Petry: Petry may end up being the first to go as the soon-to-be 34-year-old is a prime target to be dealt for a rebuild. He holds trade protection that basically keeps him away from 15 teams and the Canadiens should be fine to find Petry a home as the mobile defenseman has been a productive player. That was before this season of course where he only has two assists and no goals in 24 games. Last season Petry recorded 42 points in 55 games. The right-handed defenseman is having a down season and the Canadiens may have to retain a little bit of salary in any deal involving their defenseman.

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