When a team hits a losing streak, like the Canadiens, who have gone 0-4-1 in their last five games after falling 5-3 to the New Jersey Devils on Thursday, trade rumors tend to flood the conversation. Although I generally don’t give much attention to rumors until something concrete happens, I couldn’t resist looking into the speculation circulating online. After considering it, my conclusion is that the Canadiens should stick to their rebuilding plan and avoid making hasty decisions.
One of the rumors is that the Canadiens are seeking a top-four right-handed defenseman. But is that really necessary? Mike Matheson is unquestionably the team’s best defender, a smooth skater who plays in all situations. The only right-handed shot among the top four is veteran David Savard, who brings a physical edge and is an elite shot blocker. The team also has young defensemen like Kaiden Guhle and Lane Hutson, who need ice time to develop. Plus, Montreal already has several right-handed defensemen in their system—Justin Barron, Logan Mailloux, and the injured David Reinbacher—all of whom were highly regarded prospects. The focus should be on nurturing this talent.
Speaking of Mailloux, he’s performing well in the AHL with the Laval Rocket, currently the second-leading scorer with three goals and six assists in just four games.
Another rumor suggests the Canadiens are on the hunt for a physical forward. While the team does need more scoring, the answer could already be on the roster, with healthy players like Patrik Laine and Ivan Demidov. Demidov, currently playing in the KHL, has been one of the league’s top scorers despite limited ice time, with six goals and 13 assists in 25 games. Regarding the physical forward rumors, there’s talk of Boston’s Trent Frederic, but it seems unlikely the Bruins would trade with a division rival. Moreover, Frederic wouldn’t be a significant upgrade over Michael Pezzetta, who leads the Canadiens in hits per 60 minutes.
There’s also talk about a potential trade for Anaheim’s Trevor Zegras. However, Zegras, who hasn’t met expectations since being drafted, doesn’t fit the Canadiens’ need for a responsible, two-way center who can win faceoffs. It’s doubtful that a change of scenery would suddenly make him the player Montreal needs.
The most pressing concern for the Canadiens may be their goaltending situation. Sam Montembeault has had the chance to prove himself as a No. 1 goalie but hasn’t been able to seize the opportunity. Neither he nor Cayden Primeau are performing well statistically, with both ranking outside the top 50 in goals-against average. While the team’s poor defensive play is a factor, the goaltenders haven’t stolen any games this season. While there’s no urgent need to acquire a new goalie right now, it should be a top priority if the team hopes to contend next season.
Looking ahead, fans are eager to see if Boston College sophomore Jacob Fowler could be Montreal’s goalie of the future, though U.S. college goalies are often a mixed bag. Some, like Connor Hellebuyck, Jeremy Swayman, and Thatcher Demko, have thrived, but others, like Primeau and Devon Levi, have struggled.
