Departure of David Savard from the Canadiens: significant development

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David St-Jean
July 7, 2024 (4:54 PM)

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David Savard will be entering the final year of his four-season contract, and it might not be with the Montreal Canadiens.

According to David Pagnotta, the defenseman is on the market and is considered the most likely to depart from the team, ranking 10th in the entire NHL on his list.

"For teams looking to add a strong and reliable defenseman to their blue line, Savard checks many boxes. He is entering the last year of his contract and could bolster the blue line of a contender for the 2024-2025 Stanley Cup."

Pagnotta suggests that Savard might head to the West, with the Stars, Avalanche, and Jets being the favorites to acquire him.

David Savard traded to the West?

That's what Pagnotta mentions, and it makes sense. Savard is built for the rugged playoff style, never shying away from a challenge or a shot block.

Every team aiming for the Stanley Cup needs a David Savard, without a doubt. He is truly dominant in his style of play.

It would also be very surprising if he stays in Montreal all year. If not this summer, he will likely be traded by the trade deadline.

Savard will certainly want to sign one last good contract, as he is 33 years old. With the young talent emerging within the Canadiens, I don't think he will get that type of offer from Kent Hughes.

The general manager will have to choose between trading him or losing him for nothing next July, unless the Canadiens are in a strong position to make the playoffs next March, which seems unlikely.