Deal concluded between the Canadiens and Devils: bad news emerges for Hughes

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Elias Edmonson
June 4, 2024 (1:04 PM)

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After the deal already concluded between the Montreal Canadiens and the New Jersey Devils, here is bad news for Kent Hughes.

An upcoming change will certainly impact the trade he made with the Devils this season, the one involving goaltender Jake Allen.

Let's remember that on March 8th, Hughes traded Allen to New Jersey for a third-round pick in 2025, a pick that can become a second-round pick in 2025 "if Jake Allen plays 40 games during the 2024-2025 season."

Knowing that Allen played 13 of the last 19 games of the Devils' season, it was promising. However, this is about to change.

The New Jersey Devils put their 10th overall pick of 2024 on the table to acquire a star goaltender, reducing the chances of the Montreal Canadiens acquiring a second round pick

Clearly, the Devils' management is extremely determined to acquire a good goaltender and they are ready to pay a high price.

«Now the general manager is getting involved: the New Jersey Devils want to acquire a goaltender, even if they have to trade their 10th overall pick in the next draft.» - Via TVA Sports

Jake Allen, who is currently their number 1 goaltender, is therefore in danger of losing his position and becoming a number 2 goaltender again.

GM Tom Fitzgerald added another layer on Monday when he revealed to NHL.com that he was ready to part with his first-round selection.

«If we feel it can help us now and in the short-term future, then yes, I am listening. I haven't received an offer yet, but the more I talk to teams, the more I tell them: 'Listen, I can part with the 10th pick, but I would need something [significant].'» - Tom Fitzgerald, via TVA Sports

Clearly, their first-round pick (10th overall) is available on the trade market. This is significant.

For some time now, the names of Jacob Markstrom and Linus Ullmark, two top goaltenders, have been linked to the New Jersey Devils.

So, this is a big case to follow, one that will have a direct impact on Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens, because if the Devils add a Markstrom or an Ullmark, we can clearly say "goodbye" to the possibility of receiving a second-round pick in 2025.

Details will follow.

Credit: TVA Sports - Devils : un désaveu envers Jake Allen?