The replacement for David Savard would be available for the Montreal Canadiens for free

He was the main player acquired by the Bruins in the Taylor Hall trade. A 24-year-old defenseman who performed very well in the NCAA, he's highly promising and could be acquired by Kent Hughes for absolutely nothing.

The Canadiens have a good defensive pipeline, but let's be honest, it's not Gustav Lindstrom who will play a significant role. Mitchell could be a solid acquisition, and there's nothing to prevent him from being placed on waivers when David Savard returns if he doesn't meet expectations.

This is the kind of project that Kent Hughes particularly enjoys, and the timing is right. To be continued...