Major Trade Looming With the Colorado Avalanche? Kent Hughes Has Made a Surprising Organizational Decision

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Elias Edmonson
March 1, 2024 (4:10 PM)

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With the trade deadline fast approaching, it doesn't take much to start speculations. The mere presence, at this stage of the season, of professional scouts at a game, creates a buzz on social media.

We saw it Thursday night as several teams went to Chicago to attend the game between the Blackhawks and the Avalanche. No less than seven teams were represented in the press gallery, including the CH.

Nothing to help with the rumors, the CH has often been linked to the Avalanche, as several players from the Montreal team could be very useful to the Colorado club. We just have to remember the latest rumors about Jake Allen, which ultimately proved to be false.

Still, the latest personnel moves in the NHL leave room for speculation. According to what Pierre LeBrun reported, the Avalanche was interested in Chris Tanev. They even offered a first-round pick to the Flames but demanded that they take Ryan Johansen's contract in return. Calgary seems to have declined this option.

Seeing that right-handed defenders available in the NHL are rather rare, it would not be surprising if Chris MacFarland turned to Kent Hughes to inquire about David Savard. However, the Avalanche would have to add a lot if Johansen is included in the deal because his contract (and his utility in the club) is somewhat burdensome. The latter, who struggles to produce in this offensive team, has another year on his contract at $4M.

CH representatives were also present at another game, Thursday night, between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Boston Bruins. Seeing the number of teams represented, it would not be surprising if both teams are looking for depth for the final stretch of the season.

It is difficult to see who the CH was observing during this game. However, my gut tells me that Vegas, while Mark Stone will miss the rest of the season and perhaps even the playoffs, could look to replace their captain. I wonder, however, what help the CH could provide at this level...