Two Targets Emerge as Canadiens Gain Cap Space to Strengthen 2nd-Line Center

Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens just made a major move by trading Carey Price's contract (simultaneously freeing $10.5M in cap space) to the Sharks in exchange for Gannon Laroque, a long-term injured defenseman, and a 5th-round pick. Here we go into more detail about the Canadiens' new acquisition.

The result? According to PuckPedia, the Canadiens now have $4,568,333 of space under the $95.5M cap, without relying on the long-term injured reserve. That's huge! No more LTIR constraints-Kent Hughes now has real room to make moves.

With this cap room, the Canadiens can target a top-6 center to strengthen their offense. Two names circulating in rumors that fit the budget: Jared McCann and Pavel Zacha.

McCann, with a $5M cap hit (through 2026-27), is an offensive machine.

He can play center, has scored more than 60 points three seasons in a row with the Seattle Kraken, and his salary is perfect for the Canadiens.

Zacha, at $4.75M (Boston), is another interesting fit. This 6-foot-3 forward has produced between 47 and 59 points in recent seasons and could be a reliable 2nd-line center.

If the Canadiens decide not to make a move immediately, this trade gives them the flexibility to absorb performance bonuses (like those of Hutson or Demidov) or aim for a major acquisition at the trade deadline. Hughes freed this space without sacrificing major assets-just a 5th-round pick!

With McCann or Zacha as potential targets, the Canadiens can dream of a stronger offense. Which one would you target?