NHL draft: Huge news for the Canadiens from Columbus
We are one week away from the highly anticipated NHL Draft, set to take place on Friday, June 28, in Las Vegas, and the Montreal Canadiens are in a strong position with the 5th overall pick.
The Blue Jackets, selecting just before the Canadiens, have made a major announcement that could significantly impact Montreal's draft strategy.
According to rumors, the Blue Jackets are leaning towards selecting a defenseman. This could be advantageous for the Canadiens, especially considering that Chicago and Anaheim are also likely to focus on defensemen.
There are solid defensive prospects in this draft class, and the Canadiens might have the luxury of choosing between Ivan Demidov or Cayden Lindstrom with the 5th pick.
However, a big twist has emerged, as confirmed by Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell himself: their 4th overall pick is available for trade. While this could be tempting for the Canadiens to move up a spot, there is a significant risk involved.
� via journalist Mark Scheig
The Canadiens could potentially make an offer, perhaps packaging their 5th and 26th picks, to move up. However, if Columbus trades the pick to another team aiming for Ivan Demidov, it could disrupt Montreal's plans.
The two main targets for the Canadiens are Demidov and Lindstrom. With Macklin Celebrini expected to be unavailable, if Chicago or Anaheim selects one of these two forwards, the Canadiens could find themselves in a tough spot.
Additionally, the 6th pick from Utah, the 7th from Ottawa, and the 10th from New Jersey are also reportedly available for trade. This sets up a very promising and unpredictable draft day next Friday, where anything could happen!
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Canadiens should make an offer to the Blue Jackets to ensure they can select Demidov or Lindstrom at 4th overall? | ||
| Yes | 253 | 52 % |
| No | 234 | 48 % |
| List of polls | ||
