The Montreal Canadiens are aggressively shopping Max Pacioretty

There’s been talk about the Montreal Canadiens possibly looking for a trade involving Max Pacioretty, but now we have confirmation that he’s on the block.

Max Pacioretty and trade has been a frequently used combination of words as of late. Before some thought that the Montreal Canadiens could work out a deal with the Edmonton Oilers who were also having a bad season. Then talk moved to the Calgary Flames as they’ve been looking to add offence to their roster. However, that was all talk; now it’s a different ball game.

Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet announced during the intermission of the game that Marc Bergevin was aggressively shopping the 29-year-old. Apparently, the deal will involve picks and prospects, but the main thing the Habs want in return is a young top goal scorer.

That fits with the mindset the Montreal Canadiens should be having now that the season is practically over for them. One thing that Kypreos mentioned was that Bergevin is willing to be patient with this development and has a strong sense of what he wants.

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It would be a kick in the stomach if the Habs were to trade Pacioretty for ten cents on the dollar and have him light things up with another team. Regardless of what’s been going on for him this year, he has the talent of an elite goal-scorer. This may not be his season, but you don’t lose all those skills overnight. It would be incredible to see Pacioretty play without so much weight on his shoulders and Bergevin may be acknowledging that fact.

Who the Habs get in return is up for debate, but what will be interesting is when this happens. If Bergevin is serious about his demands and refuses to budge this could drag out until next season.

What’s funny is that it has the potential to be similar to the Matt Duchene situation but on a smaller scale. The holdout won’t be nearly as long considering Pacioretty’s contract is up at the end of next season, but there’s a chance he’s not moved as quickly as we think.

Next: Deslauriers is Sticking to His Word

When do you think the Habs trade Pacioretty? Who do they get for him in return? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.