Arthur Kaliyev has made a decision and it could be beneficial for the Canadiens

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Elias Edmonson
June 7, 2024 (4:19 PM)

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Throughout the winter, rumors circulated that the Los Angeles Kings wanted to part ways with forward Arthur Kaliyev.

Several months later, the 22-year-old right winger is still under contract with the California team, but things could change quickly.

According to David Pagnotta of TheFourthPeriod, not only is Kaliyev still on the trading block, but he has also requested a trade by the end of the summer.

Arthur Kaliyev Requests a Trade: An Opportunity for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

This was enough to reignite the rumors linking him to the Canadiens. Kaliyev has already been mentioned as a candidate to become Kent Hughes' next Kirby Dach or Alex Newhook this summer. Could he be the perfect fit to complement Dach as soon as next fall?

Kaliyev, 22, was the 33rd overall pick in 2019 and a player with the talent of a top 15 pick. He is purely offensive, having notably scored 95 goals over his last two seasons in Hamilton, which is extremely impressive. However, he has somewhat disappointed with a progression that leaves much to be desired.

After finishing the 2022-2023 season with 13 goals and 15 assists, totaling 28 points in 56 games, the Kings certainly expected more from him this year. The forward only managed seven goals and 15 points in 51 games with the Kings in the most recent season.

It would be interesting to see how a change of scenery, which he has long desired, could help him. Under the direction of Martin St-Louis, he might regain his touch, given his powerful shot and excellent puck protection skills. Once he regains his confidence, he could certainly help the Canadiens.

On July 1st, the young man will become a restricted free agent, as he is currently in the final year of his NHL entry-level contract. Given his stats over the past few years, he wouldn't be very expensive and could become, much like Dach, a great deal if he ever breaks out with the team.

In any case, it's solid for the Canadiens because it gives Kent Hughes an additional option to bolster the attack, and it's a very affordable one at that.

A case to watch...