NHL Rumors: Winnipeg Jets Linked to Canadiens Trade Target

The Winnipeg Jets have had a tremendous first half of the NHL season, now sitting just one point out of top spot in the Western Conference. Their 23-9-4 mark has them believing that they can make a deep run in the playoffs. We know from the past the Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff is more than willing to add pieces at the trade deadline, even a rental, so it's reasonable to expect the team to make a key addition or two by March 8th.

One prominent name on the market they're being linked to is Montréal Canadiens center Sean Monahan. The 11-year veteran has seen his offense slow down in recent years, but he’ll still be a top option for teams looking for an addition down the middle ahead of this year‘s deadline. Monahan is currently sitting on nine goals and 13 assists for 22 points in 37 games. His time on ice has ticked up again this year to over 18 minutes a night.

The Habs’ pivot carries a cap hit of $1.985 million, while the Jets currently have cap room of $1.921 million. With just a tiny bit of maneuvering, this sounds like it could be a fit. Monahan does not own any sort of no-trade protection.

The Jets will have some competition for Monahan, though, not the least of which will come from the Colorado Avalanche, who are also rumoured to be interested.

The Canadiens, however, are also said to still be considering an extension for the impending unrestricted free agent. They’ve got two months to make a decision before the trade deadline comes and goes.

Monahan, 29, has recorded 227 goals and 274 assists for 501 points in his 718 career NHL games.

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