NHL Rumors: 2 Montreal Canadiens Taken Off Trade Market

The Montreal Canadiens have found a groove with new head coach Martin St. Louis. After a dismal start to the season that had everyone in hockey shaking their heads, the Canadiens have made huge strides under their new leadership and some players are starting to turn around their seasons. Let's take a look at two players who were discussed on the trade market but appear to be staying put in Montreal:

Jeff Petry, RHD

At one stretch this season Petry went pointless in 17 straight games and couldn't find any way to contribute on a nightly basis and now he's found his game. He's recorded seven points in his last eight games and has seen his ice-time increase under St Louis. Before Petry was linked to being dealt to the Philadelphia Flyers or Edmonton Oilers and now it seems like the 34-year-old will be staying put. He's signed through the 2024-25 season at $6.25 million so Habs fans are hopeful Petry can find maintain consistency under the new bench boss. 

Artturi Lehkonen, LW/RW

St Louis loves players who work hard and play with speed and Lehkonen certainly fits the bill. He was the hottest Canadiens player on the rumor mill at the start of the season and the trade talks have died down significantly. Lehkonen is a pending restricted free agent and at 26 years old is a player who could be in Montreal for a very long time. So far in 52 games he's recorded 24 points, including three goals in his last five games. While the offers may entice Canadiens' management to consider a deal, at this point it seems like likely Lehkonen stays and signs an extension in the offseason.

Photo credit:  Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports