Canadiens Rumors: Former NHLer Links Nikolaj Ehlers To Montreal
The Montreal Canadiens are quickly becoming a focal point in the growing speculation surrounding Nikolaj Ehlers, who is expected to test the free-agent market on July 1.
According to multiple reports, including NHL insider David Pagnotta, the 29-year-old winger is preparing to leave the Winnipeg Jets after a decade-long tenure, and Montreal is already being viewed as a serious contender for his services.
Ehlers, fresh off a 63-point campaign (24 goals, 39 assists) and a strong showing at the IIHF World Championship, checks nearly every box for a Canadiens team looking to boost its top-six with speed, scoring, and veteran experience.
One major factor in Montreal’s favor? Ehlers’ close friendship with current Canadiens forward Patrik Laine, his former Jets teammate and longtime confidant.
Familiar Ties, Cultural Fit Give Habs the Edge
Former NHLer Jannik Hansen recently suggested that Ehlers would be more inclined to choose Montreal over teams like Vancouver. “He’s great friends with Laine… He wouldn’t scoff at that plane in Canada,” Hansen said, citing Ehlers’ comfort with high-pressure markets and his familiarity with Eastern Canada after a stellar junior stint with the Halifax Mooseheads.
Nikolaj Ehlers scoring a very crucial playoff goal: pic.twitter.com/7Sj1xDthvq
— Connor Hrabchak (@ConnorHrabchak1) May 16, 2025
With the Canadiens returning to playoff form and boasting a promising young core including Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, Ehlers would slide seamlessly into their system. While he’s not a center, executive Jeff Gorton has indicated the team’s priority may be a winger, and Ehlers would offer a high-end alternative to more expensive targets like Mitch Marner.
A Free Agency Story to Watch Closely
Ehlers’ expected market value sits around $7–7.5 million annually, a price that could prove far more manageable than other marquee free agents. His skillset, production, and locker-room presence make him a strong fit for Montreal’s evolving identity under Martin St. Louis. As free agency nears, momentum around Ehlers and the Canadiens is clearly gaining steam—and if the rumors prove true, July 1 could mark the start of a new era in Montreal.
Might be a goal against Canada but hearing @DanRTSN call a goal by Nikolaj Ehlers is 🤌
— Dave Minuk (@ICdave) May 22, 2025
And then Kevin jumps in for some colour and it feels like you’re watching a Jets broadcast. pic.twitter.com/e5cMjNbZum
Photo Credit: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images
