Does Hughes want to acquire a top player? He made a statement that speaks volumes

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Elias Edmonson
August 18, 2023 (11:41)

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Since taking office, the Montreal Canadiens' General Manager, Kent Hughes, has made excellent transactions to continue the rebuilding process started by the organization. Indeed, without acquiring star players, he has replenished the Tricolore's prospect pool and also acquired young players with very high potential.

However, Hughes made a very interesting statement during his press conference, suggesting that this situation might change in the future. He mentioned that the surplus of draft picks the Canadiens possess could possibly help them overpay for a top player when the team is ready to be competitive.

I think as we accumulate draft picks [...] it probably gives us a bit of luxury to maybe overpay slightly, in order to acquire a player we want and who can help us be competitive in the window in which we believe we can do it. - Kent Hughes

Knowing that the Tricolore won't be able to compete with the top teams in the NHL this year, could the general manager try to add a star forward next summer?

Many young players/prospects will have continued to progress throughout the season, and next year's free agent market will give the general manager an opportunity to take a giant step in the team's rebuild.

One thing is certain, we are all eager to see the next moves Kent Hughes will make to continue building Martin St-Louis' lineup. Summer 2024 could represent a major turning point in the team's aspirations and intentions.