NHL Rumors: 3 Free Agent Targets Listed For Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens took some baby steps in their rebuild this past season, improving by eight points in the standings, and are hoping to take an even bigger leap forward this offseason. The prospect of adding an impact veteran forward would help take the offense to another level.

Armed with more cap space, the Habs have the ability to wade into the free agent pool to bring in some established talent. With that in mind, analyst Marco D'Amico of Montreal Hockey Now has presented three free agent targets for the Canadiens to shoot for this summer. 

Teuvo Teräväinen

The Carolina Hurricanes' veteran forward had the best goal-scoring season of his 11-year career, finding the net 25 times, to go along with 53 points and a +15 rating as his 5-year, $27 million deal comes to a conclusion. He'll be a sought-after player on the free agent market, though entering his age-30 season next year, he'll be looking for a deal with some serious term. Will the Habs be willing to offer it?

Jonathan Marchessault

The Quebec City product is entering his free agency with the first 40-goal campaign of his career, as well as having a Conn Smythe Trophy under his belt for leading the Vegas Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup last season. His veteran presence and championship pedigree would be ideal to take these young Canadiens to the next level. 

Steven Stamkos

This one might be a bit of a stretch, as Stamkos, even if he was to leave Tampa Bay, would likely be looking to hook up with another contender. He's sipped from the Cup twice as the Lightning captain, and as his career is now on the back nine, the 34-year-old is likely looking for more of the same. But as D'Amico notes, he'd be the ideal catch as a veteran leader. 

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