The Montreal Canadiens are off to a 2-1-1 start to their season, battling to beat the Washington Capitals 3-2 in overtime on Saturday night.
It was a strong game from goaltender Jake Allen that held them in the game, a big game from captain Nick Suzuki who looked like his old self yet again, and of course Cole Caufield fired home the game’s winning goal in overtime to secure two points for the team.
Another interesting tidbit that came out of Saturday night’s game surrounded veteran winger Joel Armia. Not only that he had been called up that morning from the Laval Rocket to fill the roster void up front from Kirby Dach’s injury. Also, he was listed as a potential trade candidate in the near future.
Sportsnet reporter Elliotte Friedman is one of the best in the business at getting inside information from around the league. He suggested in the second intermission that Armia’s situation is one worth keeping an eye on. He also warned that things around the NHL usually don’t heat up until months into the season, but there are a few players that could be moved early in the season and Armia’s name was on that list.
The 30 year old winger started the season with the Laval Rocket in the American Hockey League. He also has two years remaining, (including this one) on a contract that pays him $3.4 million per season against the salary cap.
He did play well in the AHL, scoring four goals and five points in four games, and serving as a terrific leader demonstrating excellent attitude and work ethic for the young Canadiens prospects. But, considering he was in the minors and has a big contract, who would be interested in acquiring the a player that passed through waivers at the beginning of the season?
Let’s take a look at three potential situations that could see Armia moved by the Canadiens in the near future.