The Montreal Canadiens are once again considering leveraging their defensive depth to acquire a forward, according to recent reports. General Manager Kent Hughes has been actively working to improve the team's offensive capabilities, particularly in the top-six forward group, and is willing to trade a defenseman to make it happen.
Montreal has a surplus of talented blueliners, making a trade a viable option to address their need for a scoring forward. The Canadiens have a glaring need for a second-line center but may consider acquiring a top-six winger instead. The team has a solid young core, including Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Lane Hutson, and is looking to add the right supporting cast to become true Stanley Cup contenders.
While the Canadiens have been receiving calls about Kaiden Guhle, the team views him as a key part of their future and is not actively looking to trade him. Marco D'Amico of RG.org reports that the Canadiens value Guhle's unique combination of physicality, defensive awareness, and mobility.
However, other defensemen on the roster could be trade candidates. D'Amico speculates that Arber Xhekaj, Jayden Struble, or Adam Engstrom could be moved to acquire a top-six forward. Alexandre Carrier is another potential trade candidate, especially once prospect David Reinbacher is ready to join the Canadiens' lineup.
The Canadiens have a recent history of trading defensemen to acquire forwards. Last year, they traded Jordan Harris to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Patrik Laine. With a crowded defense that includes Noah Dobson, Lane Hutson, Mike Matheson and Alexandre Carrier, some players may find themselves on the outside looking in.
The trade market is currently challenging, with a limited number of available players. This may push the Canadiens to wait until the March 6 trade deadline to make a move.
Montreal has been linked to several forwards in trade rumors. They reportedly have interest in Nashville Predators center Ryan O'Reilly. TSN's Darren Dreger has suggested a potential fit with the St. Louis Blues, who have assets up front. The Canadiens also have been speculated to have interest in Vancouver Canucks forward Kiefer Sherwood.
The Predators are reportedly seeking a first-round pick and an "A-level" prospect for O'Reilly. The 34-year-old center has a $4.5 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season.
With approximately $3.7 million in cap space and a deep prospect pool, the Canadiens have the assets to make a deal. General Manager Kent Hughes continues to explore all options to improve the team's offense and push them closer to Stanley Cup contention.
