Jake Allen may be on his way out of Montreal very soon

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Jeff Drouin
July 9, 2022 (10:27)

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Even though the number of wins wasn't there this season, Habs goalie Jake Allen still did well in front of the net last season despite the fact that the Habs finished last overall.

With doubts surrounding Carey Price's future in the NHL, it's becoming increasingly clear that Allen could have a significant role to play in the 2022-2023 season, but as David St-Jean of Marqueur.com reports, it's not a guarantee that he'll be back in Montreal.

According to independent journalist Patrick Lortie, #34 was very close to being traded to the Edmonton Oilers at the trade deadline. He even mentioned that Allen came very close to being part of the deal that sent Brett Kulak to the Oilers, but GM Ken Holland would not pay Kent Hughes' asking price.

But does this mean that the Oilers are no longer interested in the Canadiens' goalie?

Absolutely not, as Mike Smith will be on the long-term injured list for the entirety of his final year of contract and Mikko Koskinen has left the NHL to play in Switzerland next year.

This means that Ken Holland is looking for a top-notch goaltender and Allen could be a great acquisition for the Oilers who have had all kinds of problems in front of the net this year, especially in the playoffs.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the Habs are stuck with the salary cap and money will have to be freed up for Kent Hughes to sign Rem Pitlick and Samuel Montembeault, both of whom are free agents with compensation this summer.

Allen will be paid $2.875 million next year and will be in the last year of his contract. However, should Carey Price not be able to play next season and his salary be deducted from the payroll, then the Habs' staff will have a lot more leeway and could retain the services of Jake Allen.