Is Kent Hughes about to hit a home run? Several teams are willing to pay a high price for a player like David Savard

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David St-Jean
December 13, 2023 (1:23 PM)

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As the season progresses, it becomes increasingly evident that the Canadiens' general manager will be in seller mode at the trade deadline. The team is unlikely to make the playoffs, and it's time to stock up on prospects for one last time.

On this subject, David Pagnotta has launched a very interesting idea regarding a transaction that Kent Hughes could complete, and it would be a real home run.

According to the insider, the value of a defenseman like David Savard would be very high.

"For my part, my curiosity goes more towards a guy like David Savard who holds an additional year of contract. Some teams are more interested in acquiring a player who is not necessarily at the end of their contract and who is not just a rental player but has an extra year on his contract.

There is a bit more control, more stability in the acquisition, and for some of these teams, they feel they can go a long way this season but also next year.

I think that's where a guy like David Savard can come into play with so many teams looking to recruit more defensive players who have the presence of a veteran on and off the field.

I think we will start to hear more about David Savard as the season progresses, and much less about Mike Matheson. I wouldn't be surprised if the Montreal Canadiens get a similar return to what they received for Ben Chiarot a few seasons ago if they decide to trade him." - David Pagnotta

If you recall, Ben Chiarot was traded for a first-round pick, another fourth-round pick, and Ty Smilanic. And Chiarot was going to become an unrestricted free agent without compensation at the end of the season, which is not the case for Savard.

So, the value of number 58 could be even greater and bring more to Hughes if he finds the right partner.