More than just a courtesy call for Canadiens?
Joey Alfieri: Pierre LeBrun said on TSN 690 on Matt Duchene‘s visit with the Montreal Canadiens: “It was more than just a courtesy visit…But Nashville is still the front runner.”
Canadiens looking for a top-four left-handed defenseman and a backup goalie
Eric Engels of Sportsnet: The Montreal Canadiens have about $10 million in salary cap space this offseason and may be looking at left-handed defenseman Jake Gardiner.
The Canadiens, nor Gardiner’s agent, would confirm if they’ve requested a meeting.
If the Canadiens aren’t able to land Gardiner, they may have to have to go the trade route. Trade talks over the last week haven’t been fruitful according to GM Marc Bergevin.
Sources saying the Philadelphia Flyers are looking for a top-six foward plus for defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere.
Calgary Flames defenseman T.J. Brodie was discussed but nothing materialized.
Would think they checked in Carolina Hurricanes Calvin de Haan before the was traded to Chicago. Would think that Canadiens are looking at New York Islanders Nick Leddy if they haven’t already.
Trading for someone costs assets. Gardiner wouldn’t, but they’d have to pay him upwards for $7 million a season.
GM Bergevin is also looking to add a backup goaltender and Curtis McElhinney is his prime candidate.
Other lesser options could include Keith Kindaid, and Calvin Pickard.
Duchene would seem to be a bit of a change for plans for the Canadiens
Eric Engels of Sportsnet: Matt Duchene is doing his due diligence and exploring all options, the best way to maximize his value.
A week ago Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin said they wanted to be younger and faster, so the interesting that they are interested in Duchene at a big price. He’s obviously talented, but this seems to change their plans a bit.
They may have to make other moves if they sign him.
A Karl Alzner buy out may be needed.
“As far as adding (through free agency), yes I’m always looking to add, but I need to be responsible,” Bergevin said. “We have some young players coming through — KK (Jesperi Kotkaniemi), Max Domi, even (Ryan) Poehling. If they progress the way we think they are, I hate to three years from now (be forced) to move one of those kids to make room for a guy that just signed a week from now that I can’t move.”
The Canadiens still need to find a top-four left-handed defenseman. They’ve checked in on Shayne Gostisbehere. Nick Leddy and T.J. Brodie could be cheaper trade options.