3 Montreal Canadiens trade candidates heading into 2025

The Montreal Canadiens are trying to climb the standings in the Eastern Conference, to get into contention for a wild-card position. If the Habs can't grind their way up the ranks, and into playoff contention before the middle of February, look for GM Kent Hughes to be aggressive on the trade market.

Here's three Canadiens trade candidates, heading into 2025:

David Savard

With Hughes landing Alexandre Carrier from the Nashville Predators, it essentially set the Canadiens up with a replacement for Savard moving forward. The right-handed blueliner is a shot-blocking monster, who is best suited in a depth role, with a primary focus on staying at home, and playing defense. Savard is owed $3.5 million this season, he does not have any trade protection, and he's going to be near the top of the list for trade targets for several contending teams. Look for the Canadiens to try and land at least a second-round pick in exchange for the veteran defenseman.

Mike Matheson

Matheson has one season left on his deal and is someone who could land a significant return for Hughes and company. Matheson's owed $4.87 million through next season and holds a modified eight-team no-trade clause. Through 34 games, Matheson has two goals and 18 points, playing almost 25 minutes per game. The Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs are two teams to keep an eye as potential landing spots. 

Jake Evans

Evans, like Savard, is a pending UFA, but he could be someone then Canadiens hold a hard bargain on. Evans is a gritty two-way centre who loves to kill penalties and shut-down opponents, he just so happens to also be having a career offensive season. Evans has recorded 10 goals and 23 points in 36 games, and plays over three minutes per game killing penalties. 

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