Canadiens Targeting Specific Forward, Dangling Defensemen For Trade

The Montreal Canadiens seem to be pretty active in trying to make deals ahead of the draft and free agency as it has been reported by Darren Dreger that the Canadiens are in the market for an age specific forward and feel like they have the picks and defensive prospects to attract the right piece.

Pierre-Luc Dubois is on their radar again as they've tried to get back into the mix for the Winnipeg Jets' forward, but they haven't been able to gain any traction. Montreal is stocked with future assets but with the way the Jets are trying to restructure their roster, the team needs NHL-ready players for next season, not down the line. The Los Angeles Kings still lead the charge on that front as they have those NHL-ready assets.

While the Canadiens definitely have second options, third options, and so on, it brings up an intriguing question as to which defenseman or defensemen might be dealt in short order. They have seven-plus defenders age 23 and under that might attract the attention of certain teams looking for assets that can make a difference down the line including Kaiden Guhle, Jordan Harris, Arber Xhekaj, Justin Barron, Mattias Norlinder, Jayden Struble, and Nicolas Beaudin.

The Canadiens have center depth covered, but I believe they wouldn't be against shifting Kirby Dach back over to the wing if they do land a big named player. The wing is probably where they're looking to get that age specific target, but they likely won't be too picky about the exact position. They have versatile forwards who can move around and too many solid defensemen in their system that some will need to be used to acquire more immediate help.