The Montreal Canadiens entered this season with a renewed sense of optimism, hoping to challenge for a playoff spot. However, that optimism has faded as they find themselves once again battling for a lottery pick. This disappointing turn of events has ignited trade rumors, with 28-year-old center Jake Evans emerging as a potential trade candidate.
Jake Evans’ Career Year Sparks Trade Talk
Habs insider Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette recently suggested that Evans’ strong performance this season could price him out of Montreal’s long-term plans. Evans, currently on pace for a career-best year with nine goals and 22 points in 35 games, is playing himself into a significant raise.
Cowan speculates that Evans could command a four-year deal with an annual cap hit of at least double his current $1.7 million, a price the rebuilding Canadiens may be unwilling to pay. With Evans set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, Montreal may look to capitalize on his trade value at the deadline rather than risk losing him for nothing.
While Evans has developed into a reliable two-way center, his age (he turns 29 in June) and impending UFA status make him an ideal trade chip for a contender seeking depth down the middle. Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, and Minnesota Wild, all in need of center depth, are likely to be monitoring Evans’ situation closely as the trade deadline approaches.
From my perspective, this move makes a lot of sense for both sides. Evans gets a chance to join a contender and compete for a Stanley Cup, while the Canadiens acquire valuable assets to help accelerate their rebuild. It’s a classic “hockey trade” that benefits both the player and the teams involved.
The NHL trade deadline is always a time of excitement and speculation, and this year’s deadline promises to be no different. Keep an eye on Jake Evans; he could be one of the most sought-after players on the market.
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If you’re in in Vegas, they just beat your team last night. They’re not going to be in a lottery position this year. Update your article. Both Laine and Dach are just hitting their strides as both missed full season’s last year.