Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes has his eye on Boston Bruins forward Pavel Zacha, a player he knows well from his time as a player agent. According to TVA Sports' Nicolas Clouthier, Hughes "adores" Zacha, whom he previously represented at Quartexx Management.
Zacha, currently 28 years old, has been the subject of trade rumors recently. He is a left-handed center who was drafted sixth overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2015. Over the last two seasons with the Bruins, Zacha has recorded 47 and 59 points respectively. He earns $4.75 million per year until 2027.
Sources say that Zacha would consider a trade to Montreal, a team that is looking for an experienced second-line center. There were reportedly conversations between the Canadiens and Bruins over the summer, and further talks are expected later in the season if the Bruins decide to trade Zacha.
Trades between Boston and Montreal are not common. The last player swap between the Canadiens and Bruins occurred in 2001. Clouthier wonders if Hughes is the kind of general manager who would break the trend of the two teams not making deals.
Despite the rumors, Zacha is seen as a valuable part of Boston's core. Pierre LeBrun reported that the Bruins view Zacha as a "long-term fit" and may extend his contract rather than trade him. LeBrun stated that the Bruins could look to sign Zacha to a contract extension this summer. The Bruins see Zacha, who is 28 years old, as the right age for the team's transition.
However, other sources indicate that the Bruins are still listening to offers for Zacha. James Murphy of RG.org reports that Boston does not seem entirely convinced about keeping Zacha, and if a good enough deal comes along, he could be on his way to a different organization. According to a league source who spoke with RG Media, the Canadiens have recently inquired about Zacha. The source stated that several teams, including the Flames, continue to express interest in him.
Nick Kypreos noted that there is a significant shortage of top-six centers available this season and next. Zacha's strong start to the season has caught the attention of many teams, including Vancouver and Montreal. With one year remaining on Zacha's deal after this season, the Bruins have time to evaluate him before deciding whether to re-sign him or trade him for assets.
It is also reported that the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers are interested in Zacha. Several sources have confirmed that the Canucks have had interest in Zacha since the summer. One source told Murphy that this skilled center would be a good fit on the third line with the Edmonton Oilers.
According to Canadiens insider Nicolas Cloutier, the Canadiens are not on Zacha's no-trade list, and he is interested in joining the team. Zacha's prior relationship with Habs GM Kent Hughes may play a significant role. Hughes was Zacha's long-time player agent before accepting his position with the Canadiens in 2022.
