“More Roster Flexibility”: Price Move Key to Habs' Fall Trade Strategy - RG.org

This article explores the Montreal Canadiens' expected trade of Carey Price's contract and their ongoing search for roster improvements.

The Canadiens are projected $6M over the salary cap and need to move Price's $10.5M contract to create flexibility. With Price's $5.5M signing bonus paid out, teams like the San Jose Sharks and Chicago Blackhawks emerge as potential destinations seeking salary floor insurance. Montreal hopes this move will enable future trades for a top-six center, as the current market remains challenging with few sellers available.

• San Jose Sharks lead as the most likely destination, sitting just $5M over the salary cap floor with multiple tradeable assets
• The bone-dry trade market has prevented Montreal from acquiring a top-six center, forcing them to rely on Kirby Dach's development
• The highly regarded 2026 NHL Draft class featuring Gavin McKenna could create earlier trade activity as teams compete for better draft positioning
• Moving Price's contract would provide crucial salary cap flexibility for potential in-season acquisitions before the trade deadline