Canadiens Widen Trade Net: Linked to Multiple Trade Targets

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Nov 19, 2025 5:30 PM ET

For some time now, the Montreal Canadiens’ biggest rumored need has been a true No. 2 center — a long-term piece to support Nick Suzuki and stabilize the top six. But with injuries piling up and scoring depth taking a hit, the Habs have quietly broadened their search criteria. According to sources like Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic and TSN, Montreal is no longer locked into one positional target. Centers, wingers… it doesn’t matter. If a forward can upgrade their top nine and fit the team’s longer-term outlook, he’s on their radar.

This shift isn’t just injury-driven. Montreal has been making exploratory calls for months, even before the lineup took multiple hits. What’s changed is urgency — and the willingness to consider multiple types of players rather than chasing one perfect fit in a thin market.

A Growing List of Targets — But Few Actually Available

Montreal has been tied to several names, but each comes with complications.

LeBrun points out that Nazem Kadri would be an ideal stylistic fit, but Flames ownership doesn’t want him moved. Blake Coleman is another Calgary option, yet the Flames aren’t in a hurry to trade him, if at all. Jordan Kyrou was discussed before his no-trade clause kicked in July 1, but he reportedly has no intention of waiving at this time. Jonathan Marchessault makes sense on paper, but his three-and-a-half years of term at $5.5 million raise red flags for a team not ready to push all-in.

Montreal is making calls — the league just isn’t lining up to help.

The Real Challenge: A Market With Almost No Sellers

With the standings so tight, nearly every team still believes it’s in the race. That leaves Montreal working the phones in a market with only two semi-clear sellers: Calgary and St. Louis. Even those clubs aren’t eager to move meaningful roster players yet. As a result, Montreal’s “dual-track” approach — considering both long-term swings and cheaper stopgaps — requires patience.

The irony in all of this: even a forward upgrade won’t fix Montreal’s biggest problem. LeBrun writes that the Canadiens simply aren’t getting enough saves. “Analysts agree that improved goaltending — not a winger or center — is the real short-term path to stabilizing the season. Montreal may land help up front eventually, but their fortunes won’t turn until the crease does.”The goaltending hasn’t been nearly good enough.”

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: