Canadiens Rumors: GM rejecting trade offers for top prospects

According to multiple reports, the Montreal Canadiens are active in trade talks, however it's much more complicated than just finding a trade suitor. GM Kent Hughes isn't interested in giving up any prospects who he feels are going to make a run at the Canadiens' roster in the next two years.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman mentioned Montreal in a recent 32 Thoughts article, as it's becoming obvious Hughes would like to continue re-tooling the Canadiens' lineup:

As mentioned Saturday, Montreal is looking for edge up front, but not at the expense of any young players/prospects it wishes to insert over the next two seasons.

Montreal has started the season 4-6-1 and sit near the bottom of the Atlantic Division. The Canadiens have been led by Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield up front, and Mike Matheson on the back end. Rookie defenseman Lane Hutson has arrived, recording seven assists in his first 11 games this year. 

Don't expect to see Hughes entertain any trade offers for Hutson, Oliver Kapanen, Kaiden Guhle, or prospects Owen Beck, David Reinbacher, Logan Mailloux, or Joshua Roy.

The Canadiens have $7.4 million in cap space to work with and have been hit hard this season with injuries, including winger Patrik Laine. Montreal had big hopes for Laine to improve their offense, but unfortunately have to wait another couple of weeks before his return.

Keep an eye on the Habs, they're active in trade talks and a move could be coming, sooner than later.

Photo credit:  Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images