Should the Montreal Canadiens offer sheet or trade for Sebastian Aho?
By Omar L
The Montreal Canadiens are in on Sebastian Aho, and the means of acquiring the centre will determine how likely getting him on the team is.
Well this is something, isn’t it? If the NHL ever saw another offer sheet in the modern salary cap era, the Montreal Canadiens led by Marc Bergevin would surely be a player in those discussions. It comes at a good time as well considering they lost out on the Matt Duchene sweepstakes, but this would be another level of improvement for the Habs if they managed to get Sebastian Aho.
The Carolina Hurricanes had a great regular season led by the wonders of Aho. The 21-year-old led the Hurricanes in scoring with 30 goals and 53 assists for 83 points in 82 games as the team’s number one centre. Carolina has been trying their “best” to get Aho under contract, but similarly to the Mitch Marner situation with the Toronto Maple Leafs, management isn’t willing to give him what he wants.
Apparently, the Hurricanes offered Aho an eight-year deal worth $6 million a season. It’s ridiculous that was even a starting offer considering his talents and most importantly, his position. Aho’s camp countered with a five-year deal $9.5 million deal, and the league is still waiting for the word on that development.
As with most restricted free agents, the Hurricanes have said they are willing to match any offer sheet but are also exploring the possibility of a trade. A team who has been in those scenarios are the Montreal Canadiens.
Pierre Lebrun got everything started this morning.
According to sources, Carolina got calls from 3 different teams today on Sebastian Aho, hinting at an offer sheet. The 'Canes told them they would match any offer sheet. Carolina did tell them they would entertain trade conversation. Believe that Habs is among 3 teams who called
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) July 1, 2019
David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period added more fuel to the fire saying the Montreal Canadiens are willing to acquire Aho in either method possible.
Canadiens have significant interest in Aho. There's talk the Habs are trying to make this work. Is a trade doable, or will they present an offer sheet? This is something to watch. https://t.co/O7xOttFqSQ
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) July 1, 2019
The question now is what is the best offer?