NHL Rumors: Avalanche & Canadiens Becoming Trade Partners

The Montreal Canadiens have played much better than many expected this season so far, and a lot of the credit can be given to Martin St. Louis' coaching. The team is just three points out of a playoff spot, have the ninth-best win percentage in the conference, and have a positive record through 22 games. This team may not finish in the bottom-five of the league, but it isn't their time yet and will still be looking to trade some of their players on expiring contracts for assets.

Sean Monahan is among the top trade candidates and he's having somewhat of a career resurgence in Montreal now that he is healthy and playing higher up in the lineup. He is playing centre in the middle-six and averaging the third-most ice time among forwards on the Canadiens. Monahan also has five goals and 14 points which ranks fourth on the team. Montreal acquired a first round pick to take him off the Calgary Flames' hands this past offseason and could realistically get a first round pick before the deadline for him.

This is where the Colorado Avalanche come in. They have had trouble replacing Nazem Kadri in the second line centre position. The team has tested a few players including Evan Rodrigues, J.T. Compher, and Alex Newhook out in that role, but aren't comfortable running with any of them like they were with Kadri.

This is why they are sure to be scouring the market for a more veteran centre who can fill that role and give them the best shot to repeat as Stanley Cup champions. Seeing as Monahan was first line centre not too long ago and is filling that role in Montreal who has a crowded forward group, he may be a good option for Colorado to consider.