The Montreal Canadiens are still on the hunt for a left-shot defenceman, and with the Anaheim Ducks coming to town, a trade between them may work.
We’ve already discussed a few options for the Montreal Canadiens and their hunt to shore up their left side on defence. Jake Muzzin was one of them, and Elliotte Friedman revealed in his latest 31 Thoughts piece, or confirmed rather, that the Habs were involved in those trade talks, specifically when it came to trading Max Pacioretty. But considering how good Tomas Tatar and Nick Suzuki look, I don’t think the Habs missed out.
Shayne Gostisbehere has been another defenceman to consider especially with all signs pointing to a selling season for the Philadelphia Flyers. That could change if they continue to press on for a wild-card spot into the playoffs making a Gostisbehere deal extremely difficult and expensive. The type of player he is in combination with his cap hit may make a trade of that type worth it for the Habs in the long-run though.
The easiest avenue has always been to stand pat and wait. Victor Mete‘s reuniting with Shea Weber is looking more like a for sure run rather than the latest experiment. Thankfully he was okay after taking a check that drove his head and neck into the boards thanks to Milan Lucic.
That easily could’ve forced Marc Bergevin‘s hand if the Montreal Canadiens wouldn’t be content with another go of the Brett Kulak/Jordie Benn show up top (although the former has looked better as each game passes).
Another team that may be the trade partner are the Anaheim Ducks and considering the state of their season and organization as a whole, shedding players and salary would be a beneficial move for the long haul.