Quick Takes on Key NHL Teams
Several teams, including the Anaheim Ducks, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, New Jersey Devils, and Utah Hockey Club, reportedly showed significant interest in Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies. While some initially doubted Toronto’s willingness to trade Knies, it’s now understood as a potential option.
During the trade deadline, discussions reportedly occurred regarding the Montreal Canadiens potentially moving Patrik Laine and his contract to either the Philadelphia Flyers or the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Minnesota Wild reportedly considered trading prospect Charlie Stramel, but only as part of a significant transaction. Similarly, the Carolina Hurricanes were open to moving Alexander Nikishin under comparable circumstances.
The Buffalo Sabres reportedly made some progress in contract negotiations with Alex Tuch, with GM Jarmo Kekalainen involved. A strong playoff performance from Tuch could potentially influence the Sabres’ approach.
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Ryan Shea, a 29-year-old pending unrestricted free agent, achieved a career-high 29 points and displayed solid defensive play.
Montreal Canadiens’ Deadline Activities and Major Deal Speculation
Reports indicate that the Montreal Canadiens made inquiries about several players, including Matthew Knies, Nazem Kadri, and Rasmus Ristolainen, prior to the March 6th trade deadline. The specific “significant” deal that GM Kent Hughes alluded to remains unidentified in the media. Hughes commented on this, stating, “I think that’s fair… It’s still a mystery.” He further clarified his post-deadline remarks, explaining, “I don’t think I said anything that day that was novel or unique. There’s a whole slew of people that continue to pursue trades until the deadline. We did that, not just on one particular trade, although one particular trade probably took up more of our time. But we were calling around about a number of different things right up to the end.”
The Canadiens are widely considered to be more than just one player away from genuinely contending for the Stanley Cup.
