A major trade between the Canadiens and the Jets involving a highly talented prospect for Sean Monahan has just been proposed

Of course, transactions will still be possible, but players acquired after that date won't be eligible to help their new teams during the postseason. Such late-season trades are therefore much rarer, typically involving minor moves.

For the Canadiens, the name on everyone's lips is Sean Monahan. The forward is drawing interest from several teams because of his versatility, and he doesn't pose a risk with his salary and contract duration.

Kent Hughes could potentially fetch a significant return, and sources close to the Jets and the Canadiens have an idea of what might be brewing.

Vesalainen is a big left winger currently playing in Liiga in Finland. Although he hasn't played in North America since the 2021-22 season, he remains a promising prospect, as evidenced by his statistics in Liiga.

However, at 24 years old, it appears more like an exchange of the player's rights. Sean Monahan is clearly worth more than a second-round pick and the rights to another player. If this trade indeed materializes, Hughes will need to secure some assurances.