3 Players the Canadiens Could Target on the Trade Market

Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes has shown throughout his tenure that he isn’t afraid to make bold trades, but he also values acquiring players who fit Montreal’s long-term timeline. Rather than chasing aging veterans, the Canadiens have consistently targeted players entering or approaching their prime. If Hughes decides to explore the market before training camp or during the season, these three players could make plenty of sense for Montreal.

Shane Wright

It almost feels impossible to discuss Shane Wright without mentioning the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, when the Canadiens famously passed on him with the first overall pick. Four years later, however, the possibility of acquiring Wright through a trade is more realistic than it once seemed.

The 22-year-old centre put together a solid 2024-25 season, recording 44 points in 79 games while continuing to establish himself as a reliable two-way player. His offensive numbers may not jump off the page, but his game has matured considerably, and he has proven he can handle difficult defensive assignments while still contributing offensively.

For Montreal, Wright would address one of the organization’s biggest needs, finding a long-term middle-six centre. At his best, Wright still possesses the upside to become a quality second-line centre capable of playing in all situations. If he never reaches that ceiling, his floor remains extremely valuable, as he projects to be a dependable third-line centre who can kill penalties, win faceoffs and match up against strong opponents.

Those types of players are incredibly difficult to find, especially at just 22 years old. Wright would also fit perfectly within the Canadiens’ young core, giving Martin St. Louis another intelligent, responsible centre to build around for years to come. He is reportedly available and the Canadiens should at least inquire on the price.

Connor Zary

Connor Zary is another player who may simply need a change of scenery. The 24-year-old has shown flashes of being a legitimate top-six forward throughout his young NHL career. His combination of skill, vision and offensive instincts has never really been questioned, but consistency has remained an issue.

Sometimes a player simply reaches a point where a new organization can unlock another level of confidence, and the Canadiens have had success taking chances on talented young players before. Alex Newhook is one example of a player who has benefited from a larger opportunity in Montreal, and Zary could potentially follow a similar path.

What makes Zary particularly interesting is his versatility. He can play both centre and wing, giving St. Louis additional lineup flexibility. He also fits the age group of Montreal’s core, meaning he could continue developing alongside players such as Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, Ivan Demidov and Zachary Bolduc. If the Calgary Flames are still willing to listen to offers, Hughes should certainly make a phone call.

Owen Tippett

If there is one player on this list who would immediately excite Canadiens fans, it is Owen Tippett. The Philadelphia Flyers’ winger has developed into one of the league’s most dangerous power forwards when he’s at his best. His combination of elite skating, a heavy shot and physical play makes him an incredibly difficult player to defend. He is the type of winger who can create offense on his own while also bringing a physical edge every single night.

Philadelphia has several talented young wingers emerging, including Porter Martone and Tyson Foerster. If those players continue establishing themselves as cornerstone pieces, could the Flyers become willing to move Tippett in order to address another area of need? It isn’t impossible.

For Montreal, the fit would be outstanding. The Canadiens have been searching for another impact forward who can play in the top six while adding more size and physicality. Tippett checks every box. Imagine Tippett skating alongside a playmaker like Demidov or Suzuki. His speed would create space, while his finishing ability would give Montreal yet another dangerous offensive weapon.

There is no guarantee that any of these players will actually become available. However, all three fit the Canadiens’ timeline, address organizational needs and still have room to improve. If Hughes decides the time is right to make another significant addition, Shane Wright, Connor Zary and Owen Tippett should all be near the top of Montreal’s trade target list.