Rumor: Montreal Canadiens Interested In Yanni Gourde?

The Montreal Canadiens will be linked to virtually every team fighting for a playoff spot as we approach the March 21st trade deadline. Players such as Ben Chiarot, Artturi Lehkonen, Jeff Petry and Jake Allen are the names that most often show up in trade rumors as of late. However, according to former coach and current analyste at TVA Sports, Michel Bergeron, the claims are the Canadiens are currently looking for an upgrade at center. According to Bergeron, the Canadiens and Seattle Kraken have discussed about a possible trade involving the Saint-Narcisse, PQ native, Yanni Gourde.

Here is the quote translated in English:

I was told this week that the Canadiens are interested in Yanni Gourde, who is a centerman. I don’t think Gourde is happy in Seattle. If ever he were to come to Montreal, his native Beauce region is just around the corner! – Michel Bergeron

The 30 year old Gourde played an integral role with the Tampa Bay Lightning’s back-to-back Stanley Cup wins. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Lightning in 2014. Gourde was drafted by the Seattle Kraken in the recent Expansion Draft.

The diminutive left handed centerman who stands 5’9″ and weighs approximately 173 lbs, currently has 12 goals and 19 assists for 31 points in 48 games, respectable numbers for playing on a team struggling to score. Gourde also has a $5,166,666 cap hit valid until the end of the 2024-25 season. Gourde also holds a full no trade clause until June 30 of this year. As of July 1st, Gourde would have to submit a 23 team no trade list.

Gourde would make an interesting addition to the team as he can provide secondary scoring on a second or third line role. He plays a very hard nosed and determine style of play, something Martin St. Louis would thrive with. However, the current Canadiens’ center line consisting already of small players such as Nick Suzuki, Christian Dvorak, Ryan Poehling and Jake Evans might suffer as a result of adding yet another small forward.

However, with the questions surrounding Dvorak’s future with the Canadiens and Jake Evans one bad hit to the head from retirement, the addition of Gourde might be spun into a positive instead.

What do you think? Should the Canadiens go after Gourde? Comment below!