Major declaration concerning Alexis Lafrenière and the Canadiens: the reactions are numerous

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MarcO
January 7, 2023 (9:46)

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Since he was recently sidelined by head coach Gerard Gallant, Alexis Lafreniere has been at the center of trade speculation. However, the veteran coach set the record straight this week when the Rangers visited the Bell Centre, saying that he just wanted to shake up the young man.

"'Laffy' is 21 years old, he still has a lot of time to grow up. There are kids who become big stars right away, like Crosby. I have no problem with Laffy. We are happy with his development, he will be a good player in the NHL."

"You should ask him about what kind of player he is," he continued. He would like to score 50 goals in the NHL. He could get there, but it's not going to happen now. I have confidence in him, he will be a very good player in the NHL." - Gerard Gallant

Rumors of a trades involving the Quebecer do not, despite these explanations, however, stop circulating. On this subject, the legend of the New York Rangers Ron Duguay is unanimous. If the Rangers decide to trade Laffy, Montreal will be one of the first formations called by the New York organization.

"Montreal Canadiens. If the Rangers were moving forward, I think that's the first place they'd look. (Jeff) Gorton, who is a vice president, drafted him and Martin St. Louis, who I love, is doing a good job. He's a smart coach.

"With the young players in Montreal, I think he would have an opportunity on the top 6 to relax and focus on playing. He seems to deal well with the pressure. If he went anywhere, the Canadiens with Martin St. Louis behind the bench, it would be a good destination if the two clubs could work out a fair trade." - Ron Duguay

The former Rangers star even puts forward a surprising name that could leave the CH and interest Rangers GM Chris Drury in Brendan Gallagher.

"A ''guy'' like... Gallagher!"

"That's the heart of the Canadiens. That's what's missing in New York. The Rangers are easy to play against. They have good players, but they're not tough. Gallagher, I love him!" - Ron Duguay

Wait a bit before criticizing (or celebrating). Duguay also mentions that the contract of the forward ( $ 6.5 million until 2027) will complicate the task and the CH will have to take an unwanted salary from the Rangers or a percentage of Gally's.

The reason Duguay gives is simple. The Rangers are not at the same place in their progression as the CH. They want to win now and not in several years.

They would only need him for two years to try to win the Cup. That's it!" - Ron Duguay

No doubt young prospects or high draft picks would accompany Gallagher to New York if such a deal ever happened...

To be continued...