Canadiens Rumors: 2 Players Linked To Montreal This Summer

For the Montreal Canadiens this offseason, Marco D'Amico has pinpointed two enticing trade candidates for the Montreal Canadiens: Martin Necas from the Carolina Hurricanes and Kent Johnson from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Necas, a dynamic winger renowned for his speed and scoring prowess, offers the Canadiens a blend of size, skill, and agility that could significantly bolster their forward lines. With the Hurricanes facing roster and cap challenges, Necas could become available, presenting Montreal with a prime opportunity to add an established NHL talent to their lineup.

Coming off a career-best season, Necas has put up 23 goals and 20 assists for 52 points across 70 games played this year.

Over his seven-year NHL career, Necas has amassed 96 goals and 146 assists for 242 total points across 355 games played, all with the Hurricanes.

Martin Necas puts home three straight goals in the first period for the first hat trick of his career! 😤

Hat Trick Challenge presented by @AstraZenecaUS pic.twitter.com/cg7wvGThO0

— NHL (@NHL) February 9, 2024

On the other hand, Kent Johnson emerges as a promising prospect for the Canadiens, despite being less proven than Necas. Johnson's versatility and offensive upside make him an intriguing option as Montreal seeks to address their need for scoring and potential long-term solutions.

After a fantastic rookie season, Johnson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in February, and scored just six goals and 16 points over 42 games played before that. However, as mentioned, last year was very impressive for the 21-year-old, seeing him put up 16 goals and 40 points across 79 games played.

Johnson was the 5th overall selection in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft by the Blue Jackets.

This angle of Kent Johnson's Michigan goal 🍿🔥 pic.twitter.com/5eefxYp9VQ

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) March 25, 2023

With the Columbus Blue Jackets potentially eyeing a rebuild under new management, Johnson's availability could present an opportunity for the Canadiens to acquire a valuable asset for their roster development.

With Columbus' lack of high draft picks in this year's draft and Montreal's plethora of first-rounders, a deal could certainly be made between the two franchises.

Both Necas and Johnson offer different dynamics to the Canadiens' forward group, providing General Manager Kent Hughes with compelling options to explore as he navigates the offseason trade market.

Whether through a trade involving Necas's established NHL experience or Johnson's promising potential, the Canadiens have the chance to enhance their roster and position themselves for success in the upcoming season and beyond. Photo Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports