We now know what the Montreal Canadiens want to acquire in their next trade
The Montreal Canadiens have shown improvement defensively but they still rank 30th in the NHL with an average of 3.54 goals per game.
This bad statistic casts a shadow on what was considered to be a deep defensive group heading into the 2024-2025 season.
Injuries and developmental setbacks have not helped the right side of the defense, with David Reinbacher sustaining a significant injury during training camp, while Logan Mailloux remains in the AHL, despite preseason expectations that he might start in Montreal.
Additionally, David Savard is in the final year of his contract and is a potential trade candidate, which would leave Justin Barron as the Canadiens' lone right-shot defenseman.
With these challenges, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton seek a top-four right-handed defenseman to help the depth of the lineup.
The goal is to acquire an experienced defender who can play significant minutes and help train Montreal's young core.
Recent reports suggest Kent Hughes has already inquired about David Jiricek from the Columbus Blue Jackets and Jacob Trouba from the New York Rangers before he was traded.
Both players fit the profile of what the Canadiens need which is a dependable right-shot defenseman capable of playing top-four minutes.
With the trade deadline approaching and playoff aspirations growing for the Habs, the pressure is on the right side of the defense where the depth is very thin.
The Canadiens' management knows that addressing this weakness could significantly improve their chances of competing for a playoff spot and they are looking to improve it.
A trade seems closer everyday and whether it's a blockbuster deal or a modest acquisition, the Canadiens aim to solidify their defense for the future.
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Montreal Canadiens have some weaknesses they must address before the season ends? | ||
| Yes | 58 | 92.1 % |
| No | 5 | 7.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
