ALL HABS | NHL TEAM | MONTREAL CANADIENS

Very interesting potential acquisition for Kent Hughes: a former 4th overall pick is now healthy, and it's Jesse Puljujarvi

We've known since Kent Hughes took over that he likes to take the risk of acquiring highly drafted young players who haven't quite broken out in the NHL.

Kirby Dach, Alex Newhook, and Lias Andersson, among others, were all first-round picks. The GM will once again have the opportunity to go after one, as Finnish forward Jesse Puljujarvi is a free agent and close to making a return to the game.

"At the end of a week where NHLers with hip-related ailments were in the spotlight, there is word that Jesse Puljujarvi has been cleared by doctors for full-contact training.

He's working his way back from a bilateral hip resurfacing last summer and remains a free agent."

- Chris Johnston

Puljujarvi's name has often been linked to the Canadiens in a potential trade with the Oilers, but now Hughes has the chance to acquire him for free.

It's not a big risk to take for the potential of getting a standout hockey player. We know it didn't work out for him in Edmonton and Carolina, but now that he is healthy and more mature, who knows what he will be capable of.

The 4th overall pick in 2016 has collected 114 points in 334 NHL games. He was on the verge of a breakout, but he never found that missing secret ingredient.

Previously on All Habs

Breaking News: Another serious injury for Arber Xhekaj?

Big decision made involving Logan Mailloux and Arber Xhekaj

Done for Arber Xhekaj in Montreal? The rugged defenseman could spend the rest of the season in Laval

POLL
8 DECEMBRE \| 392 ANSWERS Very interesting potential acquisition for Kent Hughes: a former 4th overall pick is now healthy, and it's Jesse Puljujarvi Would you like the Canadiens to take a chance with Jesse Puljujarvi?
Yes	222	56.6 %
No	170	43.4 %
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