The Montreal Canadiens are in a very different place than they were a year ago-and that’s a good thing. At this point last season, the rebuild was still in full swing, and fans were being asked to stay patient.
Fast forward to now, and the Habs are sitting 15 games above .500 with a 32-17-8 record. That’s not just progress-that’s a winning hockey team.
And while no one’s penciling them in as Cup favorites just yet, there’s no team in the league they can’t beat on any given night. That’s a big shift in tone, and it’s forcing Montreal’s front office to weigh some tough questions as the trade deadline approaches.
Mild Buyers, Not All-In
Let’s be clear: the Canadiens aren’t about to mortgage the future for a short-term rental. That’s never been the plan under this front office. From day one, management set out to build a sustainable contender-one built on speed, youth, and depth, not a top-heavy lineup banking on a handful of stars to carry the load.
So far, that vision has held up. The Habs have drafted well, developed their prospects, and stayed disciplined with their cap.
They’ve also resisted the temptation to chase splashy trades that could derail long-term goals. But now, with the team playing meaningful hockey in February, there’s a new wrinkle: what happens if they stand pat and miss the playoffs?
That would sting-not because it derails the rebuild, but because this group has earned the right to play beyond April.
Cap Space: Tight, But Not Unworkable
Thanks to the Carey Price contract trade last September, Montreal cleared $10.5 million in annual salary. That’s a big number, but most of it’s already spoken for.
As it stands, the Canadiens are projected to have around $1.49 million in cap space at the deadline. That’s not much, but it’s enough to make a modest move-especially if they get creative.
They’re not dealing with long-term injuries or retained salaries, and they’ve got three open roster spots. So yes, they can make something happen if they want to. The bigger question is whether they should.
One thing to keep in mind: top prospect Michael Hage could join the big club late in the season, much like Ivan Demidov did last year. There’s enough cap room to bring him in without issue.
There’s also some chatter that Alexander Zharosvky might arrive earlier than expected. Again, that’s a move that wouldn’t require much financial gymnastics.
Trade Chips: Who’s on the Table?
Montreal has assets. They’ve got prospects, picks, and a few players who could draw interest around the league. But with one exception, it doesn’t look like they’re eager to part with much right now.
That exception? Patrick Laine.
His situation is murky. Some reports suggest there’s limited market interest.
Others say there are teams kicking the tires. Earlier in the season, it felt like a near-certainty that he’d be moved before the Olympic trade freeze.
Now? It’s not so clear.
There’s a real chance he finishes the season in Montreal, and that wouldn’t be the worst outcome. He’s still a talented scorer who can help in the right role-if the fit is there.
What Do the Habs Actually Need?
When Juraj Slafkovsky shifted down to the second line, it created a vacancy on the top line. That’s the kind of situation that might prompt a deadline deal. But here’s the thing: Montreal might already have the solution in-house.
Alex Newhook and Kirby Dach are both working their way back from injuries. If either one finds their stride, that top-line hole could close quickly. And let’s not forget about Michael Hage, who’s waiting in the wings and could be a long-term answer.
Earlier this season, the Canadiens were thought to be in desperate need of a second-line center. But rookie Oliver Kapanen has stepped up in a big way.
He’s earned a longer look, and that changes the equation. What once looked like a glaring need might now be more of a luxury.
On defense, some believe the Habs should go out and get a more experienced blueliner to solidify the bottom pair. Right now, Jayden Struble and Arber Xhekaj are rotating through that role.
But again, the long-term view matters here. Bringing in a veteran might help in the short term, but it could also block the development of Adam Engstrom or David Reinbacher-two young defensemen the organization is high on.
The Bottom Line
The Canadiens are ahead of schedule. That’s a great place to be, but it doesn’t mean they should veer off course.
Making a move just to chase a few extra wins this season doesn’t make sense if it compromises the bigger picture. Unless the right opportunity falls into their lap-one that fits their age profile, cap structure, and long-term vision-there’s no reason to force it.
This season has already been a win for Montreal’s rebuild. The team is competitive, the young players are developing, and the culture is shifting. A quiet deadline wouldn’t be a sign of hesitation-it would be a sign of discipline.
Now, come summertime? That might be a different story entirely.