A dramatic turn and return to Montreal this summer for Sean Monahan? Kent Hughes is not closing the door

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Elias Edmonson
February 2, 2024 (7:55 PM)

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Following the Elias Lindholm trade, Montreal Canadiens fans had very high expectations for the return in the Sean Monahan trade.

In the end, Kent Hughes managed to acquire a 1st round pick for 2024 and a conditional 3rd round pick for 2027.

It's a nice return, but one wonders if it's worth it because Monahan is such a good player and he was so good with Juraj Slafkovsky and the other young players.

However, what if his absence was only temporary?

Sean Monahan returning to Montreal as a free agent this summer?

This possibility was raised just last week by insider Elliotte Friedman, and it would be superb.

1- Habs players love Monahan! We saw it today, especially on social media, where almost ALL the players wrote him a little note after the trade.

2- Kent Hughes has always been very fair with Monahan. He gave him a nice contract despite his injuries, he gave him golden opportunities, and he kept his word to him (notably by giving him the chance to win a Stanley Cup this season).

3- Monahan loves Montreal. He has mentioned it repeatedly and even said he would be willing to accept less money to play here.

4- He developed an extraordinary chemistry with CH players like Juraj Slafkovsky, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield, both on and off the ice.

So, there are hints. Let's wait and see, we are still far from July 1st, but do not dismiss the idea of seeing Monahan return this summer.

Imagine if Kent Hughes manages to bring back Monahan at a good price this summer while keeping the 1st, 1st, and 3rd round picks acquired. It could be very interesting.

Asked about the matter earlier today, the General Manager of the Montreal Canadiens mentioned that he could not sign Monahan at the moment (which explains, among other things, the trade), but he absolutely did not close the door to the idea of signing him this summer.

The Habs will have PLENTY of room under the NHL salary cap.

"Kent Hughes was not ready to offer Sean Monahan a contract immediately due to a lack of clarity regarding his lineup for next year." - Via Renaud Lavoie, TVA Sports

So, this is something to keep in mind and a situation to watch in the coming months!