3 Things to Watch Ahead of Canadiens Training Camp

Xhekaj’s situation is different. He has already established an identity in Montreal as a physical defenseman who brings an element few other players on the roster can provide. However, the Canadiens’ blue line is becoming increasingly crowded. Jayden Struble is still around, while David Reinbacher and Adam Engström are pushing for larger opportunities. That could complicate negotiations with Xhekaj, especially when discussing his role and value moving forward.

Neither negotiation needs to become a major issue, but Montreal would certainly prefer to have both players signed before camp begins.

Could the Canadiens Bring Someone in on a PTO?

Every September, several NHL veterans arrive at training camps on professional tryout contracts (PTO), and the Canadiens could be a team worth watching on that front. A PTO carries essentially no risk. It gives a veteran an opportunity to earn an NHL contract while giving the organization another player to evaluate throughout camp. More importantly, it creates competition.

The Canadiens have reached a point in their rebuild where young players should not simply be handed roster spots. Prospects and depth players need to prove they belong, and bringing an established NHL player into camp can increase that internal competition.

Montreal could look at several different positions. Adding another veteran forward could provide insurance in case of injuries or give the Canadiens another option for their bottom six. It does not necessarily have to result in a contract, either. Sometimes simply having another NHL-calibre player around for camp makes the evaluation process more competitive.

Hughes has generally been patient when looking for value, and a PTO could be another way of finding inexpensive depth without making a significant commitment.

Could a Trade Be Coming?

The biggest storyline to monitor might be the possibility of a transaction before or during training camp. The Canadiens still have three goaltenders in Jakub Dobes, Samuel Montembeault and Jacob Fowler, and it remains difficult to see how all three fit into the organization’s plans once the regular season begins. Dobes has earned the opportunity to take on a larger role after his strong 2025-26 season and playoff performance. Fowler, meanwhile, continues to push toward becoming a full-time NHL goaltender. That leaves Montembeault in an uncertain position.

Montreal does not necessarily need to trade him immediately. Having three capable options provides insurance, especially during camp. However, if another team suffers an injury in goal or becomes dissatisfied with its situation, the market could suddenly open up.

The Canadiens also have several young players trying to earn opportunities, and management may eventually have to move someone simply to create space. The same logic could apply on defense, where Reinbacher and Engström are knocking on the door.

On the other hand, Hughes could use Montreal’s remaining flexibility to add another depth piece if the right opportunity becomes available. Training camp often exposes weaknesses around the league, and roster cuts can make interesting players available for relatively little.

The Canadiens do not need to make a move simply for the sake of making one. They are in a comfortable position entering camp. But with unsigned players, young prospects pushing for jobs and a crowded goaltending situation, there could still be some movement before Montreal’s opening-night roster is finalized.