Top 5 defensemen the Canadiens should target in free agency

Marco Scandella’s experience would thrive in a rebuilding environment

Yep, we’re starting off with a familiar face here in Marco Scandella, who saw 20 games of action with the Canadiens in the 2019-20 season, where he highlighted his physical play with 25 hits and 19 blocks. Scandella also had three points and a goal in that span, and he often saw third-pairing minutes. 

He moved on to the St. Louis Blues in a trade that netted the Habs a second and fourth-round pick. During his time with the Blues, Scandella has remained a stay-at-home blueliner, playing a similar number of minutes in Gateway City, and in his 14 seasons, Scandella has seen a bit of everything, even if there is no Stanley Cup on his resume. 

Sure, this team already has David Savard and Michael Matheson, but Savard was part of trade rumors this past season. So if a team is interested in acquiring the 33-year-old blueliner, there is a chance the Habs make the trade and get something for him while signing a more cost-effective player like Scandella. 

Further, Scandella, like a few players on this list, is at the point in his career where he would likely embrace a role as an extra. He’s seen time in just 85 games over the past two seasons, so rotating in and out of the lineup could end up being his role regardless of where he lands.