A transaction is getting close to confirmation for the Canadiens: "David Savard will probably be traded"

PUBLICATION

Jim Sullivan
November 19, 2024 (3:46 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Kent Hughes will have to make crucial decisions as the trade deadline approaches, particularly regarding several players who will become free agents.

Among them, we find Christian Dvorak, Joel Armia, Jake Evans, Michael Pezzetta and David Savard.

The case of defenseman David Savard is undoubtedly the most complex to manage, in particular because of his age and the counterpart that could be very tempting for the Canadiens.

David Savard will generate significant interest on the trade market

Many NHL sources confirm that the 34-year-old veteran's case will be one of the most followed as the March 7 trade deadline approaches.

"NHL sources predict that David Savard will be a key trade target before the deadline. » - RG

The excellent beat reporter for the Canadiens Marco D'Amico also mentioned that the interest in Savard could complicate Kent Hughes' task, if he wants to keep him to finish the season.

"The Montreal Canadiens have one of the rarest rental assets on the market with David Savard; that could make him too tempting not to sell him.

Two separate and well-placed NHL sources." - Marco D'Amico

In addition, these same sources say that Savard would have a strong chance of being traded, based on information gathered from behind the scenes around the league.

"He's a top-4 right-shot defenseman who won the Stanley Cup. [...] From what I hear and see, Savard will probably be traded. » - NHL Source

Another Western Conference source indicated that the defenseman could be worth a first-round pick or a top prospect, which would represent a great opportunity for the Canadiens.

"If they can get a first-round pick or a top prospect for him, I don't see why the Canadiens wouldn't do it." - via RG

If the GM can actually get that much value for Savard, it would be hard to justify not trading him. And if Montreal wants to re-sign him, they can always make him an offer sheet as early as July 1st.

For a team in the midst of a rebuild, giving up that much value would be a risky bet.