NHL Trade Rumors: Kris Letang Requested Trade To Canadiens?

Recent rumors have surfaced suggesting that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang may have requested a trade to the Montreal Canadiens. 

This speculation was fueled by Pittsburgh radio host Mark Madden, who mentioned on the "Breakfast with Benz" podcast that there were discussions about Letang potentially seeking a move to Montreal at his own request. 

Letang, a Montreal native and lifelong Canadiens fan, has spent his entire NHL career with the Penguins, making the possibility of him finishing his career in his hometown an intriguing narrative.

With this goal, Kris Letang reaches 50 points (10G-40A) for the seventh time in his career. He ties Hall-of-Famer Ron Francis for the sixth-most 50-point seasons in Penguins’ history. pic.twitter.com/09bI7Il673

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) April 11, 2024

Despite the buzz, many believe that such a move is unlikely. 

The Canadiens are currently in a rebuilding phase and already have a crowded blue line filled with promising young talent. 

Adding a 37-year-old veteran like Letang, who still has four years remaining on his contract with a $6.1 million annual cap hit, would likely complicate their long-term development plans. 

Moreover, Letang has previously dismissed similar rumors, expressing his desire to finish his career in Pittsburgh when negotiating his current contract in 2022.

The Kris Letang to Montreal rumors don't even make sense. The Habs are loaded with young defensemen and already have 2 established veteran DMen as well. I get he's from there, but I don't buy it.

— Mike (@BurghFinsFan2) August 15, 2024

While the idea of Letang joining the Canadiens is appealing to some fans, especially given his ties to Montreal, it seems improbable given the current circumstances. 

It's unclear if Letang would genuinely benefit from moving to a team still far from contending for a Stanley Cup. For now, it appears that Letang will remain a Penguin, as he enters his 19th season with the team.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports