Montreal Canadiens & Anaheim Ducks Complete 1-for-1 Trade

It may not be the biggest trade made this offseason, but the Montreal Canadiens and Anaheim Ducks have completed some offseason business.

The two teams announced on Monday they've finalized a deal that sees the Canadiens acquire winger Sasha Pastujov from the Ducks in exchange for winger Sean Farrell. Both players are currently restricted free agents, and have likely made it known they'd appreciate a change of scenery. Both Farrell and Pastujov received qualifying offers from their original teams to start the offseason.

The 24-year-old Farrell scored 17 goals and 53 points in 72 games for the Laval Rocket last season. He was originally a fourth-round pick at the 2020 NHL Draft, and after he was selected, broke out with the USHL's Chicago Steel, notching 101 points in 53 games. He also helped lead the Steel to the USHL championship, with 10 points in eight playoff games. Farrell's just 5-foot-9 and has had his size questioned throughout the early stages of his development. 

As for Pastujov, the 23-year-old potted 21 goals and 36 assists for 57 points in 71 AHL games last season. He was one of the best offensive forwards for the San Diego Gulls, the Ducks affiliate. Originally selected in the third-round of the 2021 NHL Draft, the Bradenton, Florida native spent three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League, with the Sarnia Sting. In his first two AHL seasons, Pastujov scored 27 goals and 68 points in 89 games.

Moving forward, don't be surprised to see the Canadiens make another trade, as they currently have goaltender Sam Montembeault available on the trade market.