On the Montreal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues, Ottawa Senators, and Winnipeg Jets …
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet: A Hurricanes – Jets game in Finland next year would make sense with the likes of Sebastian Aho, Patrik Laine, and Teuvo Teravainen.
Believe that Max Pacioretty understands that his time with the Canadiens could be coming to an end. Does it happen before the trade deadline or at the draft? The Canadiens will be patient, but with Pacioretty’s name out there, teams will be calling Bergevin.
Aside from Pacioretty, other scoring options that could be available are Evander Kane (pending UFA) and Mike Hoffman (one-year left).
The St. Louis Blues have some interest in Hoffman. The Blues have the assets up front with Klim Kostin, Jordan Kyrou, Rob Thomas, Tage Thompson and maybe Robby Fabbri. The health of defenseman Jay Bouwmeester could play a role in what they decide to do.
Doesn’t sound like there have been any contract talks between the Winnipeg Jets and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck as of yet.
On the Montreal Canadiens …
Ryan Dixon of Sportsnet: Only Alex Ovechkin, Steven Stamkos, and Joe Pavelski have scored more goals that Max Pacioretty since 2011-12. The 29-year old Pacioretty has another year left on his deal at a $4.5 million cap hit. Looking at six teams that could be interested in Pacioretty.
Calgary Flames: The Flames lack secondary scoring and Pacioretty could be a nice fit with Mikael Backlund. Potential trade package options could include Dillon Dube and Sam Bennett.
Edmonton Oilers: A Pacioretty for Ryan Nugent-Hopkins trade seems unlikely now. The Canadiens might be interested Kailer Yamamoto.
Anaheim Ducks: Ducks could offer a package including defenseman Brandon Montour.
Los Angeles Kings: The contract of Marian Gaborik could be included in a blockbuster for the Canadiens to get a few more prospects and/or draft picks.
Carolina Hurricanes: The Hurricanes could use some more scoring. Haydn Fleury could be one defenseman the Hurricanes might move.
Minnesota Wild: The Wild are another team that could use a scoring boost. Defenseman Matt Dumba and forward Luke Kunin might interest the Canadiens.