Major acquisition by Kent Hughes and the Canadiens: The general manager has tremendous negotiating power in the upcoming trade market

With a highly competitive race ahead and many teams still in contention for a playoff spot, it will undoubtedly be a seller's market this year.

The major issue for most of these teams is that they don't have much salary cap space and/or they are close to the 50-contract limit.

However, Kent Hughes and the Canadiens have nearly $6.5 million in cap space and only 45 contracts, which is a significant luxury in the trade market. This provides him with immense negotiating power.

Not only can he take on a hefty contract and substantial compensation, but he can also be a potential partner in a three-team trade.

One thing is certain, Hughes has the advantage of sitting back and waiting for the phone to ring with offers. Even for a goaltender, there are too many teams in need of a solid number two, or even a number one, heading into the playoffs.