Canadiens Wait as Kings Weigh Difficult Danault Trade Decision

Several teams have inquired with the Kings about Danault’s availability. Both Danault and the Kings may welcome a trade if the fit and return are suitable. Danault’s contract and salary cap hit create obstacles to making deals, particularly since the Kings do not have any remaining salary retention slots available to them. This is likely to severely limit the types of deals they will be able to receive.

Elliotte Friedman noted recently, “Someone said to me they’re not so sure the Kings are going to be too inclined to do this. Danault is still a really good center, even though he’s struggling right now; he’s a good player.” He added, “…even as they have not been able to climb Mount Edmonton, he’s been one of the best players in those three series, so if you trade him, maybe he’s not having as greatest year but you’re still creating a hole.”

Friedman wasn’t sure this was the best move the Kings could make. “…Someone said to me, just don’t be surprised if the Kings hold firm here and say, ‘we value this player even though he’s struggling and centers are hard to replace.’

Canadiens As A Logical Destination

If a trade does happen, the Canadiens will remain a frontrunner. Given the Phillip Danault trade rumours, it makes sense that he would be considered a natural fit and a homecoming of sorts. A return to the Canadiens means that GM Kent Hughes would be, once again, “buying low” which is something he’s become quite adept at doing. This would stabilise the young, defensively challenged lineup.

Danault has faced the Canadiens many times already. A trade return would turn Bell Centre visits into must-watch events. It could spark his fresh start and end his season-long slump.