Last-minute development regarding a potential trade: A Canadiens forward would be targeted by Ken Holland and the Oilers
As we reported recently, Jake Evans' time in Montreal could soon come to an end. The significant congestion in the forward positions is likely to greatly reduce his ice time this season, and he might sometimes be left out of Martin St-Louis' lineup.
Moreover, several players in the current roster (Suzuki, Dach, Newhook, Monahan, and Dvorak) can play at center, while many prospects in the organization like Owen Beck, Oliver Kapanen, and Riley Kidney will be looking to join the NHL team in the coming years.
Marc Dumont also mentioned that he doesn't see Jake Evans as part of the team's long-term plans, especially when the Canadiens are ready to compete with the top NHL teams. He suggested that a trade involving the 27-year-old forward could happen soon.
Journalist Kurt Leavins, who works for The Edmonton Journal, added fuel to the fire in the last few hours, indicating that Ken Holland might turn to the trade market to add depth to his third and fourth lines. He strongly believes that the Oilers' general manager could explore the possibility of acquiring Jake Evans to address his team's weaknesses.
The Canadiens' forward would be a prime target to help bolster the Alberta-based team's bottom six. Considering that the Canadiens already have 15 forwards under contract for the upcoming season, Kent Hughes might be inclined to make such a trade to make room for young players in the organization.
Kurt Leavins also mentioned that the Oilers would be willing to part with a draft pick or a prospect to secure an effective center who can play a role in the third line. Jake Evans is primarily known for his defensive prowess and is heavily utilized on the penalty kill. Additionally, despite a slight drop in production last year, he demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively, tallying 13 goals and 16 assists (29 points) in 72 games during the 2021-2022 season.
Leavins asserts that the Oilers will seek improvements during the season rather than in the free-agent market. Evans, along with Nic Dowd of the Capitals, has both been listed as potential options for the team. - The mug NHL
While we would be saddened to see the forward leave, considering his consistent effort for the Canadiens, unfortunately, Jake Evans is often injured, and it's hard to see how he will keep his spot when the many prospects of the Canadiens are ready to make the jump to the NHL.
Certainly, this will be a case to follow closely in the coming weeks, but the possibility of Evans being traded before the start of the next season seems increasingly plausible. Do you believe the Canadiens should trade him if Ken Holland is willing to part with a second-round pick or a prospect to acquire him?
| POLL | ||
Do you believe Jake Evans still has a place in the Canadiens' lineup? | ||
| Yes | 63 | 36.4 % |
| No | 110 | 63.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
