NHL Rumors: Trade talks heating up for Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens are talking trades.

It's been a busy summer already for general manager Kent Hughes, and from all accounts it's far from over. Hughes has been trying to move several of his veteran players out, and reallocate some of his financial resources to move the needle on his roster.

While Noah Dobson was an expensive deal, the Canadiens are looking to win now and want to take a giant step forward next season. Hughes isn't shy when it comes to bold moves and also acquired Zach Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues for one of their better prospects, it's the type of move we can expect to see more of from Hughes this offseason.

The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta has been all over the Canadiens roster moves this summer, and here's the latest:

As TFP’s David Pagnotta reported ahead of last month’s NHL Draft, teams inquired about Brendan Gallagher’s availability, even though the Habs are not shopping him. Gallagher, 33, has two more years remaining on his contract and comes with a $6.5 million cap hit. He also owns a six-team no-trade list as part of modified no-movement clause.

While a trade involving Gallagher appears unlikely, veteran winger Josh Anderson and defenceman Mike Matheson’s names have also been floating around the rumour mill. Anderson has two years left on his contract, while Matheson is now in the final year of his deal. Anderson, 31, has a $5.5 million cap hit and a five-team no-trade list, while Matheson, also 31, has a $4.875 million cap hit and an eight-team no-trade list.

The Habs are reportedly discussing the possibility of an extension with Matheson, but failing to reach a new agreement may eventually result in a trade.

Hughes has goaltending prospect Jacob Fowler who teams continue to call about, along with Michael Hage, his 2026 first-round pick, and two second rounders. Keep an eye on the Canadiens, they are far from finished this summer.

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images