Three Intriguing Centers Linked to the Canadiens in Possible Imminent Trade
In the last month, the Canadiens have completely changed their identity. In recent seasons, we talked about a team that was going to miss the playoffs by a wide margin, and that was the only thing on our minds.
Things are starting to change, and after a few bad years, they are finally starting to play meaningful hockey down the stretch.
Even though some recent games have been tougher, the Habs have shown that they can compete with anyone in the league.
With this turnaround, Kent Hughes needs to rethink his plans for the trade deadline.
Instead of selling players like David Savard or Joel Armia to teams looking for reinforcements, he could now be in buyer mode.
However, Jeff Gorton has been clear: there is no question of sacrificing young players who are part of the team's future. Defensively, the team is solid, and the goaltenders are doing their job.
The offense is also performing well, especially with a first line that is producing and good depth.
However, if there is one area that needs improvement, it's at center.
Christian Dvorak is good defensively, but offensively, not that great. He has no creativity, and it hurts his wingers.
Acquiring a center for the Montreal Canadiens - the best possible move right now!
If the Canadiens can acquire a center with more offensive punch who can play on the second or third line, it would be a huge upgrade. According to Kevin Weekes' report yesterday, Hughes and the Canadiens are working toward that.
There's no need to move players like Arber Xhekaj or Joel Armia, who bring real value to the team.
The Patrik Laine effect and the arrival of Jakub Dobes have already had an impact on the Habs.
Adding a quality center could be the final piece to make the team even more dangerous at the end of the season.
Names like Casey Mittelstadt, Trevor Zegras, and Dylan Cozens are being mentioned as potential targets for the Habs.
Hughes and Gorton aren't looking to be your prototypical sellers, they'll likely be hybrid sellers, even if they fall out of the playoff race.
They'll look to ready themselves before the summer gets crazy. Guys like Zegras, Cozens, and Mittelstadt will be good bets to go and grab now as the Ducks, Avs, and Sabres look to make moves of their own.
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3 HOURS AGO | 368 ANSWERS Three Intriguing Centers Linked to the Canadiens in Possible Imminent Trade Should the Canadiens pursue a center before the trade deadline? |
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Previously on HabsFanatics