The Canadiens reached the holiday pause looking organized and competitive, even if their season has not followed a straight line. With Christmas now behind them and the New Year approaching, Montreal finds itself balancing progress with long-term planning.
That balance brings roster questions to the surface, especially as trade chatter starts to build around veterans and cap flexibility heading into the next phase of the season.
Canadiens Are Getting Linked to a Potential Patrik Laine Contract Move in Jonathan Marchessault Trade Talks
Montreal has quietly positioned itself as a team to watch on the trade market, and recent reporting suggests the front office may be open to a bold move involving a major contract. NHL insider Chris Johnston of The Athletic reported that the Canadiens could explore moving Patrik Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit as part of a larger deal aimed at landing Nashville forward Jonathan Marchessault, a move that would reshape the top six while altering the team’s financial picture.
Johnston wrote that adding Marchessault “would certainly sit well” with the veteran forward, noting the importance of his no-movement clause and his ties to Quebec. He added that the former Conn Smythe winner “would bring some experience to the NHL’s youngest roster and should be able to add offensive pop to the Habs’ top-six forward group.”
Johnston also clearly stated that “facilitating a trade for Marchessault would necessitate some money going out the door, with Patrik Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit the most obvious candidate to go.”
Laine’s situation already carried uncertainty before these rumors surfaced. The winger underwent core muscle surgery in October, with a recovery timeline projected at three to four months, putting his availability into early 2026. Signed through the 2025–26 season, Laine’s deal carries significant cap weight for a team that may prefer flexibility as its young core continues to develop. While his scoring talent remains respected around the league, his health and contract structure make him a logical piece to examine if Montreal chooses to adjust course.
Marchessault, meanwhile, remains under contract with Nashville through 2028–29 and has become a central figure in trade discussions as the Predators evaluate their direction. Despite a modest scoring (7 goals) this season, he is missing time with a lower-body injury in December. Before his injury, Marchessault was logging power-play minutes, playing close to 17 minutes a game. He brings playoff experience that Montreal’s roster lacks.
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For the Canadiens, the idea is less about a quick fix and more about timing. Montreal sits firmly in the playoff mix while also holding assets that could be leveraged to shape the roster as the season gets intense. Whether this specific scenario gains traction remains unclear, but Johnston’s reporting shows that Montreal is at least listening.