One Big Condition Could Decide Jake Evans' Trade Fate, Per Journalist
As you know, the Canadiens will have more cap space in 2025-2026 as some veterans will become free agents.
At the end of this season, several contracts will expire.
Among them is Jake Evans, who is in a good position to negotiate an excellent deal.
He has already recorded seven points so far, and in recent games, Martin St-Louis has even used him as the second-line center.
If he continues to perform well, it's clear Kent Hughes will either try to retain his services or trade him at the deadline. However, Jake Evans' future in Montreal might depend on one of the organization's prospects.
There would be a condition before trading Jake Evans
According to TVA Sports journalist Nicolas Cloutier, Kent Hughes wants to see what Owen Beck is capable of before making a decision about number 71.
You can never have too many centers, but if Evans asks for $3M+, Beck on his entry-level contract offers much more flexibility.
- Nicolas Cloutier
In 11 games this season with the Laval Rocket, Beck has tallied 10 points, including 3 goals. If he's ready to make the jump to the NHL, he could be a more affordable option than Evans.
Even though Evans has been useful for the Canadiens this season, it would still be surprising if he's part of the team's long-term plans.
As for Beck, he offers greater offensive potential, although some experts don't see him as a future top-six forward in an NHL lineup.
That said, this will be an interesting storyline to follow in the coming months as we wait to see what the Canadiens' general manager decides to do with Jake Evans.
If it were your decision and you were in Kent Hughes' shoes as the Canadiens' GM, what would you do?
