The price Kent Hughes has to pay to move up his pick is known
Kent Hughes is attempting to improve his team through various means, including trades and the draft.
It's unlikely the GM will turn to the free agent market, but you never know, with a player like Tyler Toffoli, for example.
Hughes and the Canadiens have the 5th and 26th picks in the first round this year, and if the GM wants to move up from the 26th pick, we have an idea of the price to pay.
Marc Antoine Godin and Arpon Basu referenced a trade between the Red Wings and the Stars in 2021, where the Wings' 22nd pick was traded for a top 15 pick.
Steve Yzerman gave up his 22nd pick, plus a 2nd round and a 5th round pick. This turned out poorly for him, as the Stars selected Wyatt Johnson with the 22nd pick, and he's been playing great hockey for Dallas.
So Kent Hughes would have to pay something similar, namely a 2nd and 5th round pick, in addition to the 26th overall, to move up to a top 15 position.
This sets a precedent and provides a base, but it's not set in stone. Hughes could surprise us, but it gives us a good idea.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Kent Hughes should pay the price to move up in the draft? | ||
| Yes | 182 | 40.8 % |
| No | 264 | 59.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
