The Montreal Canadiens recently acquired Phillip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a second-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. While trades in professional sports often involve uprooting families and adjusting to new environments, the Danault family seems particularly happy about this move.
Phillip Danault, a 32-year-old forward, is no stranger to Montreal, having played for the Canadiens for six seasons (2016-2021). During that time, he recorded 194 points (54 goals, 140 assists) in 360 games. After becoming a free agent, he signed a six-year, $33 million contract with the Los Angeles Kings on July 28, 2021.
This season with the Kings has been challenging for Danault, with only five assists in 30 games. Los Angeles Kings coach Jim Hiller acknowledged that this season "was a bit of an anomaly" for Danault and the team, but expressed gratitude for his time there and wished him well in his return to Montreal. Montreal general manager Kent Hughes hopes Danault's return to Montreal will re-energize him, allowing him to regain the form he displayed previously with both the Canadiens and the Kings. Hughes is counting on Danault's experience to positively impact the team.
However, the excitement surrounding this trade extends beyond the professional realm. Marie-Pierre Danault, Phillip's wife, expressed her happiness about the move in an interview with Louis Jean of 98.5 Sports. According to her, the family welcomes the change of scenery. Having lived in California since 2021, the return to Quebec signifies a significant shift for the entire family.
Marie-Pierre is especially delighted that her children will have the opportunity to grow up in Quebec and experience the joys of winter, particularly playing in the snow. She desires a sense of normalcy and familiarity for her children, something she knew well as a child. She wants her children to grow up understanding not just who they are, but where they're from. The move also means being closer to family, with grandparents nearby for Sunday dinners and a seamless connection to their French-Canadian heritage.
Despite the demanding nature of the Montreal market, the Danaults are happy to return, feeling confident in their ability to manage the environment. The presence of familiar faces within the Canadiens organization, including Nick Suzuki and his wife, adds to the comfort and excitement of this new chapter.
While the "normal" aspects of life, such as school and daycare, are yet to begin, the excitement of a fresh start is palpable for the entire family. Phillip Danault's promise of a nice Christmas has come to fruition with this trade, marking a joyful reunion with Montreal. The Canadiens hope that Danault's return will solidify the team's defense.
