NHL Trade Rumors- Avalanche’s Playoff Push vs. Canadiens’ Veteran Selloff

NHL Trade Rumors: Avalanche and Canadiens Gear Up for 

The NHL trade rumors are swirling, with the Colorado Avalanche and Montreal Canadiens drawing attention as the March 7 NHL trade deadline approaches. While the Avalanche aim to strengthen their playoff bid, the Canadiens are exploring moves involving their veteran players as part of their ongoing rebuild.

Colorado Avalanche: Bolstering Playoff Chances

The Colorado Avalanche made headlines with their recent trade to improve goaltending. By acquiring veteran Scott Wedgewood from the Nashville Predators in exchange for Justus Annunen, the team signaled its intent to compete. However, NHL insiders suggest this is just the start for the Avalanche.

According to Adam Proteau of The Hockey News, the Colorado Avalanche is among playoff hopefuls like the Predators and Minnesota Wild. With a wild-card berth in sight, the Avalanche are expected to target players who can make an immediate impact.

Similarly, analysts Tyler Yaremchuk and Colby Cohen of Daily Faceoff argue that the Avalanche is built to win now. They predict further trades, particularly focusing on shoring up their depth at center. Cohen speculates that current options like Ivan Ivan and Parker Kelly on the third and fourth lines are not sufficient for a deep playoff run.

Montreal Canadiens: Evaluating Veteran Options

As the Montreal Canadiens linger near the bottom of the NHL standings, their rebuilding efforts are sparking trade speculation. TSN’s Darren Dreger reported that Canadiens GM Kent Hughes is open to offers for pending UFAs like David Savard, Christian Dvorak, Jake Evans, and Joel Armia. Hughes could also entertain deals for Mike Matheson, one of the team’s most valuable assets.

Last season, Mike Matheson recorded career highs in assists (51), points (62), and goals (11), making him a hot commodity for teams seeking a puck-moving defenseman. Despite his $4.875 million cap hit and an eight-team no-trade clause, many believe his trade value is at its peak.

According to The Hockey News‘ Karine Hains, while Matheson’s value is high, the Canadiens may choose to keep him as a veteran presence on their blueline.

Adding intrigue to the mix, Montreal Hockey Now‘s Marc Dumont noted Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman’s suggestion that the Pittsburgh Penguins might be interested in Kirby Dach. Despite his struggles to regain form after last season’s knee injury, the 23-year-old Canadiens center remains a promising talent. Dumont believes it’s unlikely that the Canadiens will part ways with Dach at this stage.

Key Trade Scenarios to Watch

The Colorado Avalanche are likely to remain active ahead of the NHL trade deadline, targeting depth improvements to secure a wild-card berth and bolster their playoff chances. Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens face decisions about whether to trade key veterans like Mike Matheson or retain them for stability.

As speculation builds, fans of both the Avalanche and Canadiens will closely follow the next big moves in the NHL.