Kent Hughes hitting a home run by trading Joel Armia: that's significant

PUBLICATION

David St-Jean
July 18, 2024 (6:37 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

While a year ago Joel Armia seemed to have little value and Kent Hughes was seen as stuck with his contract, things have drastically changed.

Indeed, the Finn was waived, sent down to Laval, then recalled, with this scenario repeating twice.

However, it must be admitted that he bounced back well, scoring 17 goals in the season, a personal record.

So his contract has gone from a burden to a good asset, as former Canadiens scout Grant McCagg explains, Armia now holds significant market value.

"Last year, we thought we'd have to give up a draft pick to get rid of Joel Armia's contract. He's had a good second half to his 2023-24 season. Some believe, like Grant McCagg, that Kent Hughes could fetch a 3rd or even a 2nd round pick for the Finn."

- Jeremy Pearman

Wow! If Hughes gets such an offer, he would be out of touch not to accept. Armia, when he's at his best, can be a solid third-line player. But consistency has been his biggest challenge.

"A 6-3 two-way winger on an expiring contract on a 24-goal pace? That would fetch a third-round pick at a minimum...maybe a second."

- Grant McCagg

If Armia can stay consistent as he did after being called up, he could fetch a big return for the Canadiens.

This would mark yet another bad contract signed by Marc Bergevin that Kent Hughes has traded for a solid return.

"Joel Armia had 13 goals in his last 45 games. If he can score anywhere close to that in his first 45 of this season and the Canadiens are out of the playoff hunt in early March, his $3.4M cap hit on an expiring contract will be attractive to potential suitors. Armia was a presence in Montreal's run to the finals."

Indeed, it's worth noting Armia signed that four-year deal after a strong 2021 playoff showing. The Canadiens, however, haven't made the playoffs since.