Canadiens Eyeing Star Forward in Potential Trade Deal
The Montreal Canadiens, who are nearing the end of their rebuilding phase, have been linked to an intriguing trade proposal involving a star forward.
Using the PuckGM tool on PuckPedia, one fan suggested a deal that would see the Canadiens acquire Mikael Granlund from the San Jose Sharks.
Proposed Trade Details:
Montreal Canadiens receive:
– Mikael Granlund
– 2027 sixth-round draft pick
San Jose Sharks receive:
– 2025 second-round pick
– 2025 third-round pick (via New Jersey)
This trade would allow the Canadiens to bring in Granlund, who is in the final year of his four-year, $20 million contract. A former first-round pick, Granlund had a solid season with the Sharks, scoring 12 goals and adding 48 assists for 60 points in 69 games.
Granlund would serve as a third-line center for Montreal and provide depth behind Kirby Dach, who has had trouble staying healthy. The deal doesn’t require the Canadiens to give up much, and if the team is not in playoff contention, they could trade Granlund at the deadline to recover assets.
Coach St. Louis Sets Higher Expectations for Canadiens
Martin St. Louis has returned as the Canadiens’ head coach, signing a three-year extension. Though Montreal missed the playoffs last season, St. Louis believes the bar is set higher this year.
Speaking on September 18, St. Louis shared, “People keep asking if I’ll be tougher this year. My players know I always tell them the truth, and this year’s expectations are different because we’ve progressed. So, yes, I do expect more from them this season.”
The Canadiens will begin their 2024-25 NHL season at home on October 9 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Granlund Named Sharks Assistant Captain
The Sharks announced their leadership team for the upcoming season, with Logan Couture continuing as captain. Granlund, along with Barclay Goodrow, Luke Kunin, and Tyler Toffoli, will serve as assistant captains. Granlund and Kunin will wear the “A” on the road, while Goodrow and Toffoli will do so for home games.
Coach Ryan Warsofsky praised the group, stating, “We are fortunate to have high-character leaders like Logan and the assistant captains to guide the team.”
The Sharks will start their season at home on October 10 against the St. Louis Blues.
