Transaction mentioned involving the Montreal Canadiens and Trevor Zegras
Kent Hughes had big plans this year in acquiring Trevor Zegras or Martin Necas, but he ultimately turned to Patrik Laine.
The problem is that the Canadiens are now back to square one, with the long-term injury to the Finnish player. We don't have confirmation yet, but he could be sidelined for the entire season or nearly so.
Kent Hughes must once again try to help his head coach, but it's no small feat. Even though Patrik Laine hasn't yet played in the regular season with the Habs, he remains an important piece and difficult to replace.
Trevor Zegras back in discussions in Montreal?
It seems so! The young spectacular forward is definitely on the trade market, and Kent Hughes is certainly interested in him.
According to Georges Laraque and Stephane Gonzalez, a trade involving Trevor Zegras, David Reinbacher, and a first-round pick in 2025 would make a lot of sense.
- Georges Laraque
«Wait, are you giving your pick this year? [...] If you get a guy like Zegras, are you going to be in the mix for a long time?»
- Gonzo
«No, but if you go get Zegras, we agree that you don't have the top-5.»
- Georges Laraque
«That's what I was going to say, so would you give, let's say, the 14th pick and David Reinbacher for Trevor Zegras? I'd do it.»
- Gonzo
With his recent injury, surgery, and the fact that he will miss 5 to 6 months, I'm not sure if David Reinbacher would be of interest to the Ducks, but according to the two hosts, it would be a good trade.
With Zegras on the team, the Canadiens would minimize their chances of finishing at the bottom of the standings, which would hurt less in the scenario where Kent Hughes trades his first-round pick.
Another important detail to look at is regarding the salary cap. Patrik Laine will be on LTIR this season, so there shouldn't be a problem, but next year, his salary will count for $7.8 million against the cap.
Adding Zegras's $5.75 million contract and all the young players who will deserve a spot next year, I believe Kent Hughes is in a tight spot and won't really have a choice but to maintain the status quo and hope that Patrik Laine returns this season.
