As many are aware, the Montreal Canadiens’ defensive group has experienced significant overcrowding in recent years.
With a mix of experienced players and up-and-coming prospects vying for spots, it becomes challenging to accommodate everyone’s needs.
This offseason, there is anticipation that Kent Hughes will execute a trade similar to the one involving Kirby Dach to acquire a seasoned defenseman. By including the Winnipeg Jets’ first-round selection, the Canadiens could secure a promising young forward for the top two lines.
In essence, Hughes aims to replicate a trade akin to the Kirby Dach deal, where he traded Alexander Romanov and a fourth-round pick for the 13th overall pick, subsequently combining that pick with a third-round selection to acquire Dach.
If we take cues from the insightful piece penned by my colleague, Charles-Alexis Brisebois, the Canadiens will find themselves in a rush to select a player given the surplus of defensemen.
Among the defensemen who may depart this offseason, Jordan Harris and David Savard appear to be the most probable candidates to move on.
If Savard were to be dealt, this action would create an opportunity for Justin Barron and Logan Mailloux to step in and capitalize on the vacancy on the right side of the defensive lineup.
This scenario bears resemblance to the situation involving Kaiden Guhle, reminiscent of when Romanov was traded to the New York Islanders during the 2022 draft.
Arpon Basu discusses in his recent article on The Athletic that the Montreal Canadiens’ future core strength lies in their defensive lineup, emphasizing the need to start managing this surplus of talent soon, possibly as early as this summer. Basu spoke with some of the young defensemen currently on the team about the emerging talent and the competitive environment it fosters.
In reference to a potential trade involving David Savard during the upcoming offseason, Basu suggests that Justin Barron, Logan Mailloux, and Reinbacher could experience similar sentiments to what Kaiden Guhle felt back in 2022 if such a move materializes. Barron is urged to elevate his performance with the Laval team for the remainder of the season as his recent showings have not reflected those of an NHL-caliber defenseman.
Basu also highlights Guhle’s insights regarding Kirby Dach’s arrival, with Guhle revealing that Dach had hinted at potential trade rumors to Montreal prior to the draft. Guhle closely followed the 2022 draft despite not being present and anticipated Dach’s arrival upon the trades involving the Habs and the Islanders, foreseeing Romanov’s departure and the resultant opening among the team’s left-handed defensemen.
Although Guhle did not expect to immediately step into the void, he expressed his determination to compete for the position and prove himself worthy of the opportunity. Guhle’s strong showing at the 2022 training camp secured him a regular spot on the team’s defensive lineup, but concerns linger regarding his injury history dating back to his junior career. Staying healthy will be vital for Guhle to cement his position and fulfill his potential with the Canadiens.
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