NHL Rumors: Who Could The Canadiens Trade At The Draft Next Month?

As the NHL Draft looms closer, speculation intensifies around potential trades involving the Montreal Canadiens, who are expected to be active yet again.

With a clear focus on addressing their scoring deficiencies, the Canadiens are expected to leverage their bounty of assets to secure immediate offensive impact, according to Marco D'Amico of Montreal Hockey Now.

At the forefront of trade discussions is the first-round pick obtained from the Winnipeg Jets in the Sean Monahan deal, seen as a prime bargaining chip.

What a gorgeous goal by Mike Matheson. pic.twitter.com/mAh4qdSQCc
— Matt Drake (@DrakeMT) March 6, 2023

This pick, potentially bundled with promising young defensemen like Justin Barron or Jayden Struble, could be utilized to target a high-caliber scoring forward, providing the Canadiens with the offensive firepower they seek.

Furthermore, Montreal's possession of two first-round picks in the 2025 draft enhances their flexibility in trade negotiations. While it's unlikely they'll relinquish their own first-rounder, anticipated to be utilized to bolster their forward lineup with a top prospect, the Canadiens have ample assets to explore trades for immediate impact.

David Savard with the craziest stanchion bounce goal I've ever seen pic.twitter.com/9wuJyF4fxL
— Scott Matla (@scottmatla) March 6, 2024

Alongside their draft picks, the Canadiens boast a cadre of promising young defensemen, including Jordan Harris and potential prospects like Adam Enstrom or Logan Mailloux, who could sweeten trade offers and entice potential partners seeking blue-line talent.

As for current players on the team, defensemen David Savard and Mike Matheson would likely draw some trade interest, as noted by D'Amico.

Regardless, the Canadiens are loaded with assets to deal with, so expect them to be active yet again at this year's draft.

Photo Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports