Pierre McGuire links Canadiens to potential trade for former 40-goal scorer ahead of roster freeze

The Canadiens want to improve, and you can feel it. With draft picks and prospects drawing attention, Montreal has reasons to keep the phone line open. The roster freeze will last eight days, until December 27, which puts pressure on the calendar.

In that context, Pierre McGuire floated a name that often surfaces when discussing a real reinforcement.

On Tony Marinaro's podcast, he said the player would be an excellent addition for the Canadiens. He also emphasized the age of the current group, as if the timing were perfect.

At 29, McCann checks boxes that look great on paper. He already hit the 40-goal plateau in a season with Seattle, and he has produced multiple seasons above 60 points.

But you have to keep both feet on the ground before opening the wallet. First, even though he can help at center, he has played mostly on the wing for several years.

The Canadiens are still looking for a true center capable of being useful in the faceoff circle, and that is not McCann's strength.

The other big red flag is his health. He has played only 11 games this season, and he was injured again on December 10. A return in the first week of January is expected, but it remains a gamble for a team that wants to move forward now.

In the end, the idea is logical, but the price could sting. If Montreal must give up significant draft picks and a top prospect, they need to be certain about the fit.