Kent Hughes's theatrical move in the Sean Monahan case: Two first-round picks and a contract on the horizon?

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David St-Jean
January 30, 2024 (1:27 PM)

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With the approaching trade deadline, the name circulating the most, not only within the Canadiens but throughout the league, is that of Sean Monahan.

With a salary of $1.985 million and a very good performance, along with everything he brings on the ice and in the locker room (leadership, faceoffs, etc.), he is highly sought after, and top insiders truly believe he is on his way out.

This is the perspective of Elliotte Friedman, who also believes that the Canadiens could re-sign him this summer. It would be quite a masterstroke by Hughes.

"In 32 Thoughts, EF thinks it's almost guaranteed that Monahan will be traded (duh) but he thinks there is a chance he would then come back to Montreal as a free agent.

For the right AAV, we would not be opposed."

- Via Habs Chronicle

There seems to be an understanding dating back to the day of his contract signing between him and Kent Hughes. The GM should trade him to a contender before the trade deadline to give him a chance to win the Stanley Cup.

We're not 100% sure if it's true, but it makes sense. However, what we are certain about is that the center loves Montreal, and he might be tempted to return as a free agent.

Monahan, when healthy, is quite a hockey player and an excellent mentor for the young players coming up. Just look at how well Joshua Roy did during his call-up. It was easy for him to play with Monahan.

If Kent Hughes is truly able to get a first-round pick, in addition to the fact that he has already obtained one for accepting Monahan's contract, and then re-signs him this summer, it would be major!