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Why a Jonathan Marchessault trade to Montreal suddenly makes sense
The name of veteran Jonathan Marchessault resurfaced in a big way around the Canadiens.
According to Chris Johnston of The Athletic, a potential trade to the Montreal Canadiens would make sense for Jonathan Marchessault. The key factor is his no-movement clause, meaning his approval would carry significant weight in any transaction.
Marchessault is signed through the end of the 2028-29 season with a $5.5 million cap hit. His base salary for 2025-26 is $6.85 million. His contract includes a no-movement clause, and the final year also comes with a 15-team no-trade list.
Jonathan Marchessault with the Montreal Canadiens?
This season, he has played 28 games, recording 7 goals, 3 assists, and 10 points, with a minus-18 rating. He also has 60 shots and a shooting percentage of 11.7%. Last season in Nashville, he posted 56 points in 78 games, including 21 goals.
"This is a move that would certainly sit well with Marchessault, which is important given the fact he's got that NMC in his contract. The former Conn Smythe Trophy winner would bring some experience to the NHL's youngest roster and should be able to add offensive pop to the Habs' top-six forward group.
Facilitating a trade for Marchessault would necessitate some money going out the door, with Patrik Laine's $8.7 million cap hit the most obvious candidate to go.
The Quebec native would be a popular addition for the fanbase."
- Chris Johnston, The Athletic
Facilitating a trade for Marchessault would necessitate some money going out the door, with Patrik Laine's $8.7 million cap hit the most obvious candidate to go.
The Quebec native would be a popular addition for the fanbase."
- Chris Johnston, The Athletic
Over his NHL career, he has played 744 games and recorded 553 points, including 258 goals. He is 35 years old and remains an easy name to sell to a fan base when the trade market heats up.
For now, this is still rumor, not an announcement. But the fact that Marchessault would be willing to waive his no-movement clause for Montreal removes a major obstacle. If the Canadiens call, it's not just about the price-it's about getting a "yes."
File to watch!