Hughes and the Canadiens Could Explore a Trade Package That Would Land Them a First-Round Pick
As the trade deadline approaches on March 7, everyone is wondering about the plans of the Montreal Canadiens' management. Will Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes lean more toward selling or buying?
In recent months, the two executives have created some uncertainty about their intentions.
While Hughes has mentioned wanting to stick to the plan, for his part, has stated that it is not impossible for the administration to help the players as a way of rewarding their efforts.
Jeff Gorton
Pairing Jake Evans and Joel Armia to Maximize Their Return
In recent days, Arpon Basu from The Athletic has shared new information that sheds some light on the Canadiens' management's intentions.
According to one of his sources, Kent Hughes has already explored the league to see if he could receive a first-round pick by packaging Jake Evans and Joel Armia together in a trade.
The Pittsburgh Penguins and San Jose Sharks have already set the market by trading two rental players in exchange for a first-round pick."
Arpon Basu
Here are the trades Basu is referring to:
The Penguins traded Marcus Pettersson and Drew O'Connor to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for a 2025 first-round pick.
Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks traded Mikael Granlund and defenseman Cody Ceci, with the Dallas Stars sending a 2025 first-round pick in return.
A Big Gap Between Jake Evans' Camp and the Canadiens, According to Tony Marinaro
On Wednesday morning, during his show on BPM Sports, the outspoken Tony Marinaro shared new information about Jake Evans' salary demands.
According to the host's sources, Evans is seeking a five-year contract worth $20 million.
It sounds like they're far apart.
What have the Canadiens offered, in terms of money and years?
I don't know, but it looks like there has been no movement.
It seems that the Evans camp is not optimistic.
It seems that, according to them, he's as good as gone.
And even so, Jake, if you look at him lately, he doesn't look happy."
Tony Marinaro, on BPM Sports
Based on Basu's comments, it appears the Canadiens are not willing to meet Evans' asking price.
Therefore, it wouldn't be surprising if the forward is traded before March 7..
