NHL Rumors: 3 Montreal Canadiens Who Won't Be Back Next Season

The Montreal Canadiens were eliminated in five games at the hands of the Washington Capitals, and while their season should be deemed a success, GM Kent Hughes will certainly be making some roster changes heading into next season.

Here's three Canadiens who aren't expected back next season:

Patrik Laine

Look for Hughes to test the trade market on Laine. The Finnish forward had his ups and downs this season and was called out for his effort on numerous occasions. Laine only appeared in two playoff games, recording one assist, averaging just 11:42 of ice-time in each contest. The 27-year-old is entering the final season of his contract, earning $8.7 million, and owns a 10-team no-trade clause. While the return won't be significant, look for Hughes to try and move Laine off the books and make a splash in free agency.

Christian Dvorak

Dvorak will hit the free-agent market on July 1, and the Canadiens are very likely to go in another direction down the middle of their ice. Dvorak, 29, scored twice in the first-round against the Capitals, but never truly lived up to expectations in Montreal. The free-agent market has a lot more to offer the Canadiens for centre options, and with two first-round, and second-round picks at the draft, Hughes could move some draft capital to solidify his depth centre roles.

Josh Anderson

Like Laine, look for Hughes to gauge the trade market on the 30-year-old power forward. Anderson has two seasons left on his deal, at $5.5 million AAV, and owns a five team no-trade clause. 15 goals and 27 points this season isn't cutting it for the price tag, and this comes after Anderson posted 20 points in 78 games last year. Hughes may need to parlay Anderson with one of his second-round picks to get a team to bite, but considering Anderson's style of play, there should be a few suitors.

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