New Info Could be Signifying the End for Jake Evans with the Canadiens

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Elliot Ben Jacob
July 22, 2023 (6:04 PM)

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The era where the Montreal Canadiens were in great need of a center player is finally behind us. Indeed, Nick Suzuki will undoubtedly pilot the team's first trio for the coming seasons, while Kirby Dach or Alex Newhook can take on the role of second center for many years.

We must also not forget that Sean Monahan and Christian Dvorak are still under contract with the Montreal team, both of whom can play an important role in Martin St. Louis' top-9. Obviously, some of them will likely play on the wing, due to the organization's depth at the center player position.

In addition, the Canadiens have several interesting prospects such as Owen Beck, Oliver Kapanen, and Riley Kidney. While the chances of seeing the latter two (Kapanen and Kidney) carve out a regular spot with the CH in the future are less likely, there is no doubt that Beck will become an important player for the Tricolore. In fact, it wouldn't be surprising if the 19-year-old made the leap to the NHL in 2024-2025, and perhaps even as early as next season, if he manages to have a big training camp in September.

This congestion at the center position could therefore have a huge impact on forward Jake Evans. Although he is very responsible defensively, being heavily used when at a numerical disadvantage, the Toronto native has never been able to establish himself as a third-line center. Moreover, after a very encouraging season of 29 points in 2021-2022, Evans' offensive statistics greatly decreased last year, garnering a meager total of 19 points.

"It's a bit tough, especially knowing how hard he worked to get to the NHL, but I don't see Jake Evans being part of the team's long-term plans, especially once the Canadiens are ready to compete with the top teams in the NHL. His stats are very, very low, and his production is at best inconsistent." - Marc Dumont

It is difficult to see how Kent Hughes and Martin St-Louis will manage to fit him into the Canadiens' lineup, especially when Owen Beck makes his debut in the professional ranks. The team's management could soon decide to send Jake Evans elsewhere, with the aim of opening a position for the many hopefuls looking to make the leap to the NHL.

Jake Evans, aged 24, is a 6'0", 186-pound center who has played the last four seasons with the Montreal Canadiens. Often injured, number 71 has only registered a total of 20 goals and 44 assists (64 points) in 186 games since his arrival in the NHL.

Do you think the Tricolore should trade Jake Evans to allow Owen Beck to join the main team?