The Montreal Canadiens are no strangers to the NHL trade rumor mill this season, with names like David Savard already swirling around. Now, it seems forward Jake Evans is the latest Hab to attract attention as we approach the Christmas trade freeze.
NHL insider David Pagnotta recently reported that Evans is generating interest from teams looking to solidify their bottom-six forward group. This makes a lot of sense when you look at what Evans brings to the table.
Why Teams are Interested in Habs forward Jake Evans
At 28 years old, Evans has already accumulated valuable playoff experience during the Canadiens’ surprising run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021. He’s a versatile forward who can play center or wing, kill penalties, and provide responsible defensive play. Perhaps most importantly in today’s NHL, he carries a very manageable $1.7 million cap hit.
For contenders feeling the salary cap squeeze, Evans represents an affordable option to add depth and experience without breaking the bank. Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Los Angeles Kings, both reportedly looking to bolster their bottom six, could certainly see Evans as a valuable addition.
What Would the Montreal Canadiens Want in Return?
Given his role and current contract, the Canadiens are likely looking for a mid-round draft pick in exchange for Evans. For a team like Montreal, which is still in the midst of a rebuild, accumulating draft capital is key. A mid-round pick for a player who might not be a core piece of their future seems like a reasonable return.
My Take:
While Evans might not be a flashy name, he’s the kind of player that can quietly contribute to a winning team. He’s reliable defensively, can chip in offensively, and won’t hurt you in the faceoff circle. In a league where depth is crucial, especially come playoff time, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a contender pay the Canadiens’ asking price to acquire Evans’ services. Keep an eye on this situation as we get closer to the NHL trade deadline.
Stay Updated on the Latest Montreal Canadiens News
Want to stay up-to-date on the latest Montreal Canadiens news, NHL trade rumors, and find out what channel the Habs game is on TV today? Add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletter below!
