Significant acquisition by Kent Hughes: the Oilers help the Canadiens tremendous
In his quest to improve the Canadiens, Kent Hughes is working on several deals, but one of them seems particularly close to completion.
Indeed, rumors are swirling that the 21st overall pick was used in a trade with the Jets for Rutger McGroarty, but since Michael Hage was available, the deal fell through.
This rumor, coming from several well-connected insiders, makes sense as Hughes made a phone call right before heading on stage in Vegas to announce Hage's selection.
We don't know who he called, but if a trade was indeed pending with the Jets, it's plausible he called Kevin Cheveldayoff to inform him the deal was off.
It was believed the price would be quite high for McGroarty, who was the 14th overall pick in 2022, but the Oilers and Sabres just set a precedent that benefits the Canadiens.
Matthew Savoie was traded to Edmonton for two depth players, Ryan McLeod and Ty Tullio.
This means the 9th overall pick in 2022 was exchanged for a relatively modest return, while the Canadiens are targeting the 14th overall pick from the same year. The price for acquiring him just dropped.
Recall that McGroarty is currently playing in the NCAA and has not signed his entry-level NHL contract because the Jets want him to first play in the AHL.
The young man feels ready for the NHL now, something the Canadiens can offer him.
In 2023-24, McGroarty amassed 52 points in 36 games, which is excellent in the NCAA. He indeed seems ready to make the leap to professional hockey.
The Jets need to be careful because if they don't trade him and alienate the young man, he could wait out his college career without ever signing with them and become a free agent in two years.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Kent Hughes should acquire Rutger McGroarty despite his questionable attitude? | ||
| Yes | 196 | 57.3 % |
| No | 146 | 42.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
