Kent Hughes has yet to replace the losses of Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook. It's certain that mortgaging the team in the long term is not the solution, but he could acquire a forward whose contract expires this year.
Enter Anthony Duclair, currently being kept out of action to avoid injury, indicating that a trade is likely imminent. Duclair is the new Derick Brassard, as he is on his 7th team with the Sharks and will be on his 8th if traded.
We're talking about a forward who recorded 60 points last year with the Panthers and whom Kent Hughes could acquire at a low cost. Moreover, he will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, making it a low-risk move.
It would be a great addition to the Habs' attack, which is struggling to score goals. If the defensemen weren't as productive offensively, it would be even tougher.