Trade between the Canadiens and the Penguins for a star forward? That's what's being suggested, and it could significantly aid the rebuilding process
Everyone is saying it, including Kent Hughes. The Canadiens need to improve their offense, while the prospect pool on defense and in goal is promising and deep.
The top forward prospect is Joshua Roy, and let's admit it, he doesn't have the profile of a future star player, even though he's well-liked and expected to be good. Rob Ellis, from NHL Trade Rumors, suggests trading him in a package involving Jake Guentzel.
In this proposed trade, with Jordan Harris and the Jets' 2024 first-round pick, Roy would head to Pittsburgh, and Guentzel and Adam Graves would come to Montreal.
It makes sense because the Pens need to improve their prospect pool or simply create one. The rebuilding phase is imminent and inevitable within the next two or three years. It will be long and painful.
On the other hand, the Canadiens are in a position to part with prospects and draft picks to acquire a top-tier forward like Guentzel.
For the Penguins, this potential return marks the beginning of a rebuilding phase. GM Kyle Dubas acknowledges the need to start accumulating assets and draft picks as the Penguins prepare for life after the Crosby, Malkin, and Letang era. Harris is a promising young defenseman, Joshua Roy is a top forward prospect, and an additional first-round pick is an extremely valuable bargaining chip." - Rob Ellis
The sticking point is the contract extension. Kent Hughes must be convinced that Guentzel will sign long-term for such a transaction to happen. Additionally, the forward becomes a free agent on July 1st. The Canadiens' GM could wait until that date to make him an offer, without having to sacrifice Joshua Roy.
| POLL | ||
Would you do th trade? | ||
| Yes | 342 | 57.3 % |
| No | 255 | 42.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
