Kent Hughes' next transaction would be decisive for the Canadiens
Photo credit: Radio-Canada
Kent Hughes has some work to do to improve the Canadiens, and he knows it. While drafting well is important, the Canadiens need high-quality reinforcements upfront.
Indeed, it's been clear for a while that the defensive pipeline is excellent. However, some of these prospects will likely need to be traded.
According to Stéphane Waite, one player who's likely to go is Justin Barron. For him, there's no doubt about it. He and Jordan Harris will now be eligible for waivers, and if Kent Hughes uses this strategy, they're almost certain to be claimed.
However, with young players like Logan Mailloux, Lane Hutson, and David Reinbacher knocking on the NHL door, it would be a shame to leave them in Laval just to avoid losing Barron or Harris.
"Lane Hutson has exceptional talent and will be a special player.
But our problem at the start of the season will be a guy like Justin Barron. He's on the brink of making the team, but he has to go through waivers. But if we send him through waivers, he's gone. That's clear! So, I would start him in Montreal for the year to show him that he has a good start to the season, and then we trade him.
Then, you bring Hutson to Montreal for the rest of the season. I have no problem with Lane Hutson playing a month in Laval. It will only be good for him."
- Stéphane Waite
It's not a bad idea at all. Under normal circumstances, Barron wouldn't be up for trade. But with the Canadiens' prospect depth, it's the right move. Number 52 has great potential and undeniable offensive instincts, but he hasn't quite found that magic touch to compete with the best.
Too often, he gets beat in his zone, or worse, he doesn't protect himself, leading to turnovers or injuries.
And with 11 points in 32 games with the Rocket this year, he's far from convincing.
| POLL |
24 AVRIL | 462 ANSWERS Kent Hughes' next transaction would be decisive for the Canadiens Do you think Justin Barron will leave the Canadiens this summer? |
| Yes | 366 | 79.2 % |
| No | 96 | 20.8 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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