The Montreal Canadiens reached the playoffs last season and are aiming to build on that momentum this offseason.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM trade simulator, one user crafted a blockbuster proposal in which the Canadiens would acquire Elias Pettersson from the Vancouver Canucks.
Canadiens acquire:
Elias Pettersson
Canucks receive:
- Patrik Laine
- Kirby Dach
- Michael Hage (signing rights)
- Logan Mailloux
- 2025 first-round pick (from Calgary)
- 2025 first-round pick
This proposed blockbuster trade would send Pettersson to Montreal in exchange for two first-round picks and four players, including two promising prospects.
The Canadiens would bring in Pettersson, who just completed the first season of his eight-year, \$92.8 million contract. At 26, he fits well with Montreal’s core and would likely slot in as a first- or second-line player. After a challenging year, a change of scenery might benefit him—he posted 15 goals and 30 assists for 45 points in 64 games, down from 102 points in the 2022-23 season.
In exchange, Montreal would give up two first-round picks and Patrik Laine, included to balance the salaries. Laine, entering the final year of his four-year, \$34.8 million contract, hasn’t lived up to expectations in Montreal.
Montreal would also send Kirby Dach, who could fill a second- or third-line center role for the Canucks. Dach has faced numerous injuries and might benefit from a fresh start. He’s entering the final year of his four-year, \$13.45 million contract.
Additionally, the Canadiens would trade two prospects: Michael Hage and Logan Mailloux. Hage, taken 21st overall in the 2024 draft, is projected to be a top-six center, while Mailloux, a defenseman drafted in the first round in 2021, could potentially make Vancouver’s roster next season.
Canucks Will Listen to Trade Calls on Pettersson
Vancouver engaged in trade discussions involving Pettersson earlier this season, but no agreement was reached.
Now, NHL insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reports that the Canucks will consider trade offers for Pettersson before his no-trade clause activates on July 1.
“The 26-year-old center’s no-movement clause kicks in July 1, and the consensus across the NHL is that the Canucks will keep entertaining trade calls,” Pagnotta wrote. “The asking price doesn’t seem to have changed much, so any team interested will have to pay a premium to acquire him. Will the Sabres take another shot? They likely won’t be the only ones trying.”
“Pettersson won’t be the only major topic for the Canucks in the coming weeks,” Pagnotta added. “Goalie Thatcher Demko seems open to a fresh start and is expected to be available as he enters the final year of his contract.”
Even though the Canucks had a tough season, they’ll likely demand a significant return if they decide to trade Pettersson.
Canadiens GM Open to Big Moves in Offseason
Montreal was the youngest team to reach the playoffs, and they’re focused on building upon that success.
General manager Kent Hughes emphasized that the team will actively explore opportunities to improve but won’t make rushed decisions.
“We’ll be very engaged in looking for ways to strengthen our team, but we can’t afford to be short-sighted in our approach,” Hughes told The Athletic. “Every decision must balance the present and the future, especially since we have many talented young players expected to be part of our core for years to come.”
The Canadiens were knocked out in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs by the Washington Capitals.
