Kent Hughes: two Finnish are linked to the Canadiens, including a goal scorer
Kent Hughes has started his summer shopping and is in the thick of the battle to acquire a top forward like Martin Necas or Trevor Zegras.
Indeed, reputable insiders like Pierre LeBrun confirm that Hughes is in the mix. Additionally, Martin St-Louis was spotted at the gym in New York with Trevor Zegras, the two exchanging greetings.
Although this has sparked a lot of speculation, it doesn't necessarily mean anything. We know St-Louis is very close to players, even if they're not with the Canadiens.
The issue with Zegras and Necas is that the asking price seems to exceed what Kent Hughes is willing to pay, so he might need a plan B.
This plan B could be Marco Rossi or Cole Perfetti, but according to David Ettedgui, two Finns are linked to the Canadiens, Kaapo Kakko and Patrik Laine.
In Kakko's case, with the one-year contract extension he signed this week, I would be very surprised if the Rangers trade him, especially because his value is quite low now. They would benefit from waiting until the trade deadline, especially since Kakko will still be a restricted free agent at the end of this deal.
As for Laine, his massive $8.7 million contract for another two years is a deterrent for many general managers in the league.
His value is greatly diminished by this contract, and the Jackets may not get much in return unless they retain a significant portion of his salary.
In my opinion, Kent Hughes would prefer to pay more to get a better player with less risk of disappointment.
Source : Danslescoulisses.com
Kaapo Kakko et Patrik Laine : deux cibles logiques pour le CH (aux yeux de David Ettedgui)
| POLL | ||
According to you, should Kent Hughes pay more to have a player like Zegras or Necas rather than a player like Patrik Laine? | ||
| Yes | 212 | 56.1 % |
| No | 166 | 43.9 % |
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