Lack of contract talks between Canadiens' Kent Hughes and 29-year-old center: Is trade incoming?

The arrival of Christian Dvorak with the Montreal Canadiens happened on a whim by Marc Bergevin. At the time, the Habs GM had just lost Phillip Danault and Jesperi Kotkaniemi consecutively and needed a center.

While there were high hopes for this trade, nearly four years later, it's safe to say that Dvorak's time with the Canadiens hasn't been a great success.

He's had more bad moments than good and has never truly lived up to his $4.45M per year contract.

With his contract set to expire on July 1, it would be surprising if the 29-year-old American remains with the team beyond the March 7 trade deadline.

Negotiations at a standstill between Dvorak and Kent Hughes

Another indication that a trade is possible is that there are no discussions between the forward's camp and the Montreal Canadiens, per La Presse journalist Richard Labbé.

Is Kent Hughes focusing all his efforts on Jake Evans rather than Christian Dvorak?

That's a possibility, especially since the Habs' No. 71 currently has a greater role than No. 28.

As for Dvorak, he sticks to the usual script when asked about his plans. He says he loves the city and wants to stay.

But he doesn't say at what price he'd be willing to stay...

"Of course, I'd like to stay. I love the guys on this team, I love playing here, and I wouldn't be against the idea of coming back to play in Montreal after this season. It's an honor to wear this team's jersey. We'll see what happens."

That might explain his recent meeting with Kent Hughes.

In 58 games this season, the veteran has recorded six goals and 12 assists for a total of 18 points. That brings his total to 88 points in 208 games for Montreal.

He has also added three points in nine playoff games.