Even though the team is not far from a playoff spot, it is exactly where it should be, and its position is not expected to improve in the second half of the season. In short, it's part of the process, and no one expected the Habs to make the playoffs this year, except perhaps Norman Flynn.
Chris Johnston has released a top 25 list of the most likely players to be traded by the trade deadline, and three of these 25 athletes play for the Canadiens. Jake Allen is ranked 7th, Sean Monahan 13th, and Samuel Montembeault 8th.
It's surprising to see the name of the Quebecois goalie on this list, but it also gives an idea of the goalies that are in demand by other teams. Cayden Primeau might also be unavailable, which could explain why his name is not on the list.
More and more, everything seems to indicate that it's Jake Allen who will be leaving, and Kent Hughes is waiting to find a partner to complete this transaction.