The NHL trade deadline is approaching, and Kent Hughes is in a selling position for the Canadiens. The challenge is that the players he would like to see go are not very enticing.

We’re talking about compensatory picks, players that other teams would turn to as plan B, C, or D. However, there’s one name circulating a lot, and that’s David Savard.

“Speaking to some people in the National Hockey League, outside of Montreal, no one would be surprised if [David] Savard were traded before the deadline. We’ll see if a team convinces Montreal to part ways with him.”

– David Pagnotta

The defenseman is reportedly in high demand, with several NHL teams, including the Lightning, Maple Leafs, Stars, and Oilers, showing interest.

Apart from Savard, teams are inquiring about Tanner Pearson, Jake Allen, and Joel Armia. Armia had a notable performance during the 2021 playoffs, and with only one year left on his contract, Kent Hughes could potentially retain salary.

For Pearson, the Canadiens may not get much in return, but rather than losing him for nothing in the summer, Kent Hughes will surely do his due diligence.

Finally, Jake Allen (or Cayden Primeau) will only be traded if a team is in a desperate situation. They are not the top choices, even among goaltenders.