Trade proposal: Justin Barron would join his brother in Winnipeg

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David St-Jean
June 26, 2024 (9:36 PM)

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In an ideal scenario, Kent Hughes and the Canadiens would trade one or more defensemen who are not part of their future plans for a top-6 forward.

We know that former first-round pick, 14th overall in 2022, Rutger McGroarty, has requested a trade from the Jets because he believes he is ready for the NHL, while the organization thinks he should stay in the NCAA or the AHL.

This is where it gets interesting. Winnipeg Sun journalist Scott Billeck mentions that the Jets want to acquire a first-round pick in return for McGroarty, to replace the one lost in the Sean Monahan trade.

Receiving the Canadiens' 26th overall pick would not be sufficient for McGroarty, so Billeck proposes including Justin Barron, Morgan's brother, in the deal.

"While he could use McGroarty as trade bait to acquire a first-round pick (they traded this year's pick to Montreal in February for center Sean Monahan), the goal might be higher.

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I wonder if Montreal is also in the horn, offering Justin Barron (Morgan's brother). Justin didn't have a great year in Montreal, and his stock has fallen since his 25th overall selection in 2020.» - Scott Billeck

Honestly, if Kent Hughes receives such an offer, he should absolutely accept and sign. McGroarty has a promising future, and Barron no longer has a solid place in Montreal.

Additionally, the defenseman, who finished last season in Laval, will be waiver-eligible for the next campaign, which is a problem for the organization.