GM Kent Hughes Seeking a “Kirby Dach-like Move” for Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens have come crashing back down to earth. A five-game losing streak has them falling farther and farther out of the playoff race, and they're starting to focus on their trade deadline strategy.

According to insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, "The Canadiens are willing to listen on their pending UFAs, but they're also exploring the market to see where they can add."

In particular, says Pagnotta, the Habs would like to make a “Kirby Dach-like move.” That is, add young players in their early 20s, with term, on reasonable contracts.

"That's still the narrative for the Montréal Canadiens, especially up front."

Dach was acquired three summers ago by the Habs for a couple of draft picks, then as a 21-year-old, three years into his NHL career after being drafted third overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2019 Draft. It was injuries that had held him back from reaching his full potential at that time. Montreal signed him to a four-year deal that summer with a $3.36M AAV.

Dach showed his potential with a strong first season with the Canadiens, popping 14 goals in 58 games before the injury bug struck him down again. This year, he has 10 goals in 52 games.

"They've utilized some of their young assets and draft picks in the past to bring in Patrik Laine, to bring in Kirby Dach," added Pagnotta. "They're going to look to do that again."

Two players in particular, pending UFAs Joel Armia and Christian Dvorak "are starting to garner a little more attention" after several other players came off the trade boards over the last week or so.