Montreal Canadiens GM On The Price Of Prospects…
Arpon Basu of NHL.com: It is clear that prices are too high for prospects right now. Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin listed an example as follows about Mikhail Sergachev (number nine pick from the 2016 NHL Draft):
“Personally, I believe we have the tools necessary,” he said. “In terms of trades, the state of things right now, I want to be clear on this, of giving young players like Sergachev for a fix is not happening. I will always look to improve the team, but if the price to pay is our young players who will be in the organization for the next 10, 15 years, I won’t do that.”
said that Bergevin made it blunt that top prospects are off the table completely.
More on Bergevin and Montreal with a word from the captain…
Eric Engels Of Sportsnet: Bergevin is keeping an eye on anything that can improve Montreal come the trade deadline. What was more telling was simply the words conveyed by Max Pacioretty.
“We know that as a group we have to be all-in right from the start once we get back from this break. It’s on the players.”
put it best that the hiring of Claude Julien made it abundant that this is all in for everybody in Montreal.
Even more on Montreal including some trade possibilities…
Eric Engels Of Sportsnet: Bergevin again drives the point of home that a blockbuster trade is unlikely. He is likely to be active in the rental market. Also, do not assume current players are safe.
“It depends on what player and it depends on what term,” he said in French. “Depending on who they want from us and who we can get from them, I’m open. I’ll never ignore the possibility.”
indicates that players like Martin Hanzal, Brian Boyle, Patrick Sharp, and Johnny Oduya will not cost top prospects, just picks.
alludes to the fact that Julien is one of their biggest trade acquisitions due to Boston’s ability to play with pace. Also, he points out that Montreal comes fresh off a bye week which should be an added boost. Finally, Montreal could make adjustments with the extra time.