If we summarize the possible candidates for a trade from the Jackets, it's clear that Zach Werenski, Damon Severson, Ivan Provorov, and Erik Gudbranson are not the players being discussed. They have all just signed a long-term agreement or were acquired through a trade.
That leaves only Andrew Peeke, Jake Bean, and Adam Boqvist.
In my humble opinion, due to his potential market value and given that the Ohio organization has strong depth with young players who can fill his offensive role, I believe Boqvist is the name currently in negotiations.
He now seems relegated to a more limited role in the defensive squad with the big summer additions to the Jackets. It's evident he's now behind Werenski, Severson, and Provorov, and young talents like David Jiricek, Denton Mateychuk, Corson Ceulemans, and Stanislav Svozil are all pushing him.
At 23 years old, Boqvist is a right-handed defenseman with the potential to become an excellent top-4 in the NHL. Unfortunately, he suffered several injuries that limited his progress in recent years.
However, after missing a significant part of the last season, he bounced back, recording five goals and 24 points in just 46 games.
Could he become an interesting target for the Montreal Canadiens?
Kent Hughes should inquire about the price to add the Swedish defenseman to his team. He would solidify an interesting spot on the second defensive pair, behind David Savard but ahead of Johnathan Kovacevic on the right side. He could be a great partner for Kaiden Guhle, who plays a more versatile game on the ice.
The depth on the right side could be greatly strengthened with the addition of a promising player like Boqvist. Savard's presence won't last forever with the Habs, and he'd be a perfect candidate for a smooth transition before the arrival of youngsters Logan Mailloux and David Reinbacher. Moreover, he could take on the role of quarterback on the power play, either alongside Michael Matheson or on the second wave.
Marco D'Amico, who often has inside information on the Canadiens, also agrees about Boqvist's availability and the potential interest of the Tricolore.
This will be a matter to watch in the NHL this year.
POLL | ||
Would you like to see the Canadiens acquire Adam Boqvist if the price is right? | ||
Yes | 31 | 58.5 % |
No | 22 | 41.5 % |
List of polls |