Top-3 Montreal Canadiens Trade Candidates Entering 2026-27

The Montreal Canadiens are expecting to make some noise this season, but that doesn't mean their roster is a finished product. General manager Kent Hughes isn't shy to make big trades and heading into the new season, there's several Canadiens who are on the trade block.

Here's the top-3 trade candidates who are most likely to be moved this season out of Montreal:

Sam Montembeault 

Montembeault has been called the most likely player in the NHL to be traded first this season by multiple insiders. The Canadiens have three capable goaltenders and Montembeault will be the odd man out. Jakub Dobes just signed a team-friendly extension, Jacob Fowler is the youngest, and with the most potential, leaving Montembeault, a pending UFA as the prime trade candidate. He doesn't own any trade protection, so won't have any say in the matter. 

Kirby Dach

Dach, a former No.3 overall pick hasn't lived up to his potential in Montreal, and continues to battle through injuries. He's also a pending free agent and there's been plenty of chatter lately about his future. Dach's been linked to the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames, who are both desperate for a right-handed top-nine center.

Michael Hage

Hage was probably the most asked about prospect on the trade market this past summer, and let's get one thing straight, the Canadiens will only move Hage if it's in a blockbuster that lands them a top-line forward, who is under contract for at least a few years. This wouldn't be a rental situation, not even close, as the team is very high on Hage. But, if a team offers a proven all star, who will stick around Montreal long term, there's certainly at least a little bit of potential it happens.