NHL Rumors: Could Canadiens & Red Wings Create Trade?

Amidst the chatter of NHL trade rumors, an interesting rumor is emerging between two storied franchises, the Montreal Canadiens and the Detroit Red Wings.

Central to this buzz is speculation regarding a tantalizing exchange: the Canadiens parting ways with defensive prospect Lane Hutson in exchange for the Red Wings' center, Nate Danielson, as noted by Rob Ellis.

For Montreal, the allure of Danielson resides in his versatile skill set, promising stability across the ice. His reputation as a two-way center, adept at handling significant minutes and contributing on special teams, presents an enticing prospect for the Canadiens' roster.

Why are #GoHabsGo fans so excited about Lane Hutson?

Because he makes plays like this.

Every single game.
pic.twitter.com/Lng5HsL4lE

— Cam Weitzman (@Cweitz99) April 12, 2024

The 19-year-old Danielson has amassed 24 goals and 43 assists for 67 total points across 54 games played this season, split between the Brandon Wheat Kings and Portland Winterhawks.

Despite just signing a three-year entry-level contract, there are still uncertainties surrounding Hutson's future commitment, with rumors that he might be unwilling to sign long-term in Montreal, according to Ellis, acquiring a talent like Danielson could offer a proactive solution, fortifying the Canadiens' lineup for the long haul.

That being said, it's hard to imagine Montreal giving up an elite prospect like Hutson, regardless of commitment rumors.

This season, the 20-year-old Hutson has amassed an impressive 15 goals, 34 assists, 49 total points, and a +14 plus/minus rating across 38 games played with Boston University.

Nate Danielson(1st round’23)
•1 Assist +2 3 SOG 8/18 FOW in a 4-1 win
•Portland Sweeps🧹Victoria
•A typical Nate game all over the ice in 5v5 pk+power play. Tons of zone entries, defensive stops and board battles won. I’ve got some clips I’ll put together in the morning#LGRW pic.twitter.com/XZFUOuIsI6

— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) April 4, 2024

Conversely, Detroit's interest in Hutson underscores their ambition to infuse dynamic talent into their rebuilding efforts. Hutson's blend of offensive flair, likened to stars like Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes, alongside his reliable defensive game, positions him as a potential cornerstone for the Red Wings' blue line.

Danielson, 6-foot-2 and 187 lbs was the ninth overall selection in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft by the Red Wings.

Hutson, 5-foot-10 and 161 lbs was a second-round pick (62nd overall) by the Canadiens in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. Photo Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports