Anyone who frequents the 32 Thoughts Podcast or any of Elliotte Friedman's content knows he frequents cryptic comments. Friedman likes to speculate on things he has heard, to let the listener think through and speculate on rumors instead of reporting them himself and being wrong. The ironic thing about this strategy is that Elliotte is usually correct, but he will never make a statement unless it is 100% proven.
This brings us to Elliotte's comment last week on the "Hold Outs, Opt-Ins, and Potential Trades" episode of his podcast. Friedman speculated whether the two-day break between Monday's Four Nations Faceoff games and Thursday's championship game could be when teams will move to make some trades. He believes that teams talked about trades during this break and would be very active during the next two days.
Friedman's speculation would align with Jake Evans's comments after the team's last game before the break. Evans was talking in the past tense about his time with the Montreal Canadiens as if he knew that he might not be a Hab after the break. Evans' possible departure was a hot topic during the team's hot streak, but it seems like they're leaning toward a trade now.
"“It’s been an honor. It’s such a fun place to play, it’s such a great place to live, and I’ve just really enjoyed it. It’s truly an honor. There’s so much tradition here, so many great players that have worn this great jersey with pride, and it’s truly an honor.”"Jake Evans
Don't be surprised if Evans isn't with the Canadiens when they return from the break on Saturday evening against the Ottawa Senators. Who else could be involved in a trade before that game? There's a good chance the league didn't want any active players in the tournament getting traded to take away from the Four Nations Faceoff, which means Finland's departure on Monday also opens up the possibility for Joel Armia's departure.
The Canadiens might not be as hasty to trade the rest of their candidates, but Armia and Evans are two players I am circling. Owen Beck looked good with the Canadiens before the break, which means he would be an easy replacement for one of those players. Emil Heineman is also likely ready to return soon, which makes the Canadiens lineup a bit younger and gives these players a chance to play 26 NHL games before the season ends.
Many people assume you have to wait for the trade deadline to make a deal, but it looks like the drama could come early this season.