NHL Rumors: Devils & Canadiens Talking Offseason Trade?

Rumors are already starting to swirl about the upcoming NHL offseason as reports indicate that the New Jersey Devils and Montreal Canadiens are engaged in discussions for a potential blockbuster trade.

The speculated deal involves the Devils sending promising young scorer Alexander Holtz to Montreal in exchange for power forward Josh Anderson, defenseman Arber Xhekaj, and a high draft pick, according to Rob Ellis.

For the Devils, this trade signifies a strategic move to add size and physicality to their lineup, with Anderson potentially complementing their youthful core led by dynamic playmaker Jack Hughes.

Canadiens Josh Anderson

Previous 35 games: 4 goals
Last 7 games: 4 goals#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/7YXIolCGeO

— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) December 19, 2023

The 29-year-old has had a bit of a down year this season, scoring eight goals and 18 total points, along with 140 hits across 65 games played.

Additionally, the inclusion of Xhekaj strengthens their defensive depth, while the draft pick enhances their long-term prospects.

Arber Xhekaj fires one past Oettinger through traffic for his first NHL goal! Habs within 1!#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/wiPgt39N79

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) October 23, 2022

The 23-year-old, 6-foot-4 defenseman is in his second NHL season, amassing three goals, nine total points, a +6 plus/minus rating, 43 blocked shots and 103 hits over 38 games played this year.

Conversely, the Canadiens' involvement in the rumored trade indicates a shift towards their rebuilding phase. By considering the trade, they could prioritize acquiring promising young talent like Holtz while shedding Anderson's contract, freeing up cap space for future maneuvers.

Holtz would be a great addition for Montreal. The 22-year-old is currently in his first full NHL season, scoring 15 goals and 26 total points across 70 games played this year. He was the seventh overall pick in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft.

Ondrej Palat forces a Columbus turnover, setting up Alexander Holtz for his 5th goal of the year!#NJDevils pic.twitter.com/eXAFT9TEgY

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) November 24, 2023

While parting ways with Xhekaj may seem challenging, the potential addition of Holtz could accelerate their roster reconstruction process, aligning with the team's focus on long-term development and asset accumulation.

If the trade were to materialize, it could mark a significant shake-up for both franchises heading into the next NHL season. Photo Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports