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A new development shifts the Ryan O'Reilly-Montreal Canadiens trade conversation
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The Canadiens need a reliable center, a proven leader, and stability down the middle, which is why Ryan O'Reilly's name keeps surfacing in trade discussions.
Clearly, the situation is intriguing because O'Reilly is still a useful player despite being 34 years old. In my opinion, he remains a responsible center, strong in the faceoff circle, and his $4.5 million per season contract through 2027 is far from a burden.
For a team seeking stability down the middle, the temptation is real. But what's developing behind the scenes seriously complicates the equation. The Predators reportedly want a first-round pick and an A-level prospect, a price described by many as far too high.
Based on everything we've been reading for weeks, the market for veteran centers is particularly aggressive this season.
A price too high for the Montreal Canadiens
On this subject, here is what Marc-Olivier Beaudoin had to say:
"It's not surprising at all that the Habs are in the race to acquire Ryan O'Reilly's services.
However, with the return the Preds seem to be demanding right now (1st-round pick + A-level prospect), I don't see the two teams as good trade partners.
O'Reilly would fill a major need for the Canadiens, but Kent Hughes has never strayed from his plan and has never wanted to give up his "top" young players (Guhle, Reinbacher, Hage, Zharovsky) for a short-term solution.
I don't think that will change this season. We'll see if Barry Trotz lowers his price a bit.
To be continued!" - Marc-Olivier Beaudoin
However, with the return the Preds seem to be demanding right now (1st-round pick + A-level prospect), I don't see the two teams as good trade partners.
O'Reilly would fill a major need for the Canadiens, but Kent Hughes has never strayed from his plan and has never wanted to give up his "top" young players (Guhle, Reinbacher, Hage, Zharovsky) for a short-term solution.
I don't think that will change this season. We'll see if Barry Trotz lowers his price a bit.
To be continued!" - Marc-Olivier Beaudoin
Yes, names like David Reinbacher, Michael Hage, or Alexander Zharovsky often come up when fans imagine a trade, but I believe those players are exactly the untouchables.
Even if the Canadiens sometimes lack depth at center, especially given Kirby Dach's injury history, that doesn't mean young players should be sacrificed. I think this patience makes sense for a team building over several seasons. However, some believe a veteran presence like Ryan O'Reilly would do the Canadiens some good.
In short, O'Reilly would provide immediate impact, but in the long run, the cost seems far too heavy.
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