NHL Rumors: Canadiens Could Get First-Round Pick For Forward

According to Frank Seravalli, Montreal Canadiens forward Artturi Lehkonen could get them a first-round pick in a trade.

Seravalli used Blake Coleman and Barclay Goodrow as comparables. The Tampa Bay Lightning traded first-round picks for them back during the 2019-20 season, and Lehkonen arguably isn't too far behind where they were back then. With that, the 26-year-old winger is known for being solid during the postseason and can be utilized in all situations. Thus, there certainly will be a market for him.

Although the Canadiens have been bad this season, Lehkonen has quietly been having a strong year for his standards. In 41 games, he has seven goals to go along with 12 assists. If he remains healthy and consistent from here, he's on pace to pass his career-high of 31 points. With that, he's still a restricted free agent over the summer, so any team who acquires him will have control over him.

Look, it isn't a guarantee that the Canadiens will land a first-round pick for Lehkonen. However, we have seen players of his caliber land first-rounders in return, so let's just wait and see what happens. No matter what they get, it wouldn't be surprising to see the rebuilding Canadiens move him, regardless.