Jordan Harris on the market, according to THN reporter

As the NHL trade deadline swiftly approaches, customary rumors swirl about Canadiens players potentially moving to various teams, a common scenario each year. This time around, the focus is on Jordan Harris.

In a recent report by Jacob Stoller of The Hockey News on Wednesday, it was disclosed that Kent Hughes is purportedly making Jordan Harris available to other NHL clubs.

Reports suggest that the Montreal Canadiens are actively looking to trade Jordan Harris before the deadline.

Harris, a 23-year-old left-handed defenseman known for his strong skating ability, has a year remaining on his contract worth $1.4 million. The surplus of young defensemen in Montreal has made him surplus to requirements. #GoHabsGo 🏒 @TheHockeyNews

– Jacob Stoller (@JLStoller) February 22, 2024

Harris has previously been involved in trade speculations in Montreal. Back on February 9, he was mentioned among the players potentially on the move in a Sportsnet list.

The current rumors are more substantial, focusing specifically on Harris rather than being a general suggestion.

Despite not being a major game-changer, Harris could be a valuable asset as a depth defenseman for a competitive team, slotting in as a fifth or sixth option. With his contract set at $1.4 million per year until the conclusion of the 2024-25 season, moving him should not pose a significant challenge.

Harris’s offensive output is lackluster, having only accumulated six points in 32 games this season. However, he excels defensively by thwarting the opposing team’s chances.

The 23-year-old defenseman made a swift return to the ice on Wednesday against the Sabres after recovering from a concussion, his second such injury in his career. While this setback didn’t significantly impact his market value, Harris’s value remains modest. Despite his young age and solid performances, his potential for growth appears limited.

With Kent Hughes looking to bolster the defense, Jordan Harris emerges as a fitting candidate for a move. Currently, there are already five left-handed defensemen in the lineup: Mike Matheson, Kaiden Guhle, Jayden Struble, Arber Xhekaj, and Harris. Additionally, upcoming young left-handed defensemen like Adam Engstrom and Lane Hutson are on the horizon.

Although no official decisions have been made, it wouldn’t be surprising if Kent Hughes opts to trade Jordan Harris (or another left-handed defenseman) before the trade deadline