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Canadiens' Plan to Trade UFA David Savard May Shift Ahead of Deadline, Says Pierre Lebrun

Originally posted on Habs Fanatics | By Elias Adaime | Last updated Jan 24, 2025 8:29 PM ET

Due to the recent success of the Montreal Canadiens, it is possible that the management will change its strategy ahead of the March 7th trade deadline.

While many expected Kent Hughes to liquidate his assets who will be unrestricted free agents at the end of the season, he now finds himself in a position where using this strategy might be seen negatively.

As reported by the website DansLesCoulisses, this situation could mean that David Savard remains a member of the Montreal Canadiens beyond March 7th.

Pierre LeBrun has an update on the trade involving David Savard

This is at least what LeBrun stated during a recent episode of the Radar podcast, mentioning the recent success of the Canadiens.

A month ago, it was almost certain that David Savard would be traded before March 7, but now it's a bit more complicated because the Canadiens are in the playoff race.
There's definitely a chance that David Savard finishes the season with the Canadiens.

When you're Kent Hughes, it also depends on the quality of the offers.

I don't think Hughes will get a first-round pick for Savard at his age.

If the Canadiens are 7th, 8th, or 9th in the race, maybe they keep him.

- Pierre LeBrun

Even though he is not having an extraordinary season in 2024-2025, he remains a very effective defenseman and will be a key player if the Canadiens manage to secure a playoff spot.

On the other hand, if the Canadiens were to collapse and find themselves out of playoff contention at the trade deadline, Kent Hughes could receive an interesting return for his defenseman.

It is known that some teams like the Edmonton Oilers and the Toronto Maple Leafs have been mentioned in certain rumors, and the Canadiens organization would like to get something in return for a player who is unlikely to return next season.

For now, the Canadiens are performing so well that having a veteran like David Savard is quite essential for the success of a team already fighting for a playoff spot.

This article first appeared on Habs Fanatics and was syndicated with permission.

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