NHL Rumors: Canadiens Forward May Be Traded West This Offseason

The Montreal Canadiens went from Stanley Cup Final to NHL Draft Lottery and it's expected there's going to be some changes heading into the 2022-23 season. This offseason expect to see a major shakeup on the Canadiens roster and one player named recently in trade rumors is forward Brendan Gallagher.

Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette sees management not in love with Gallagher's hefty ticket as he's due $6.5 million for the next five seasons. Cowan had this to say on what the future could bring in Montreal:

This has been a difficult season for Gallagher, who has battled injuries and has only six goals in 51 games. His contract might scare away other teams but, if the Canadiens were willing to eat some of it, maybe a deal can be made.

One team Cowan makes note of is the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings showed last summer they aren't scared to make bold moves and general manager Rob Blake is a big fan of Gallagher's game. So to is former Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin, who just so happens to be a senior advisor for the Kings. This connection could be heavily leaned on prior to making this move and if Blake goes to Bergevin for advice, 'Gally' could very well end up starting next season in California.