Boston And Montreal May Combine For A Massive Trade
Canadiens GM Hughes Faces Trade Challenge with DeSmith
Montreal Canadiens' General Manager Kent Hughes recently demonstrated his commitment to reshaping the team by trading former alternate captain Jeff Petry to the Detroit Red Wings. The deal involved a conditional fourth-round pick and defenseman Gustav Lindstrom. While the move raised eyebrows in terms of asset management, it signals a potential shift in the franchise's perception among NHL players.
Navigating the Goalie Market
Hughes also addressed the situation regarding goaltender Casey DeSmith, who joined the Canadiens as part of a three-way trade involving Erik Karlsson and the Pittsburgh Penguins. DeSmith's placement within a team featuring four goalies presents a challenge. Hughes acknowledged the difficulty of finding a suitable home for DeSmith, emphasizing the sluggish nature of the goalie market for trades.
The constrained demand for goaltenders complicates Hughes' efforts. Few teams require additional netminding depth, and those that do often shy away from hefty investments. This oversupply of goalies and limited trade interest makes DeSmith's situation intricate.
DeSmith's Value and Potential Suitors
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Despite the challenging landscape, DeSmith brings value to the table. Over the past five years, he's maintained solid numbers, achieving a .912 save percentage and demonstrating his ability to save goals above expected during 5v5 play.
DeSmith's contract is set to expire, with a manageable $1.8 million salary cap hit. While options may be limited, there are potential suitors in need of reliable backup goaltending. One such scenario could be if a team like the Boston Bruins opts to trade a goalie to address other positions, creating an opening for DeSmith.
Although this remains a long-shot possibility due to historical trade dynamics between the Canadiens and Bruins, it underscores the intricate nature of navigating the trade market and the uncertainties that lie ahead for Hughes and the Canadiens.
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NHL players in this story
Jeff PetryErik KarlssonCasey DeSmith| POLL |
20 AOUT | 124 ANSWERS Boston And Montreal May Combine For A Massive Trade Should the Bruins try and acquire a true number 1 center and look at Desmith as a backup option? |
| Yes | 44 | 35.5 % |
| No | 80 | 64.5 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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