NHL Trade Rumors: 5 players Canadiens should target

2. Matt Duchene

The Colorado Avalanche have absolutely collapse this season. The team has decided to put every player they have on the market and completely rebuild. If you are going to trade for one of their players, you might as well trade for one of their best players.

Duchene just turned 26 and is signed through 2019 at $6 million per season. Adding Duchene would give Montreal exactly what they do not have, a number one center. Adding a player of Duchene’s calibre is the type of move that puts a team in search of the cup over the top.

That being said, trading for Duchene is going to cost a lot. Since he makes $6 million, Montreal will have to send another player to Colorado. By sending the expiring $3.5 million contract of David Desharnais to Colorado, the trade likely fits under the cap. In addition to Desharnais, Montreal would also have to send former first round pick Michael McCarron and both of Washington’s second round picks. It’s a lot to give a way for one player, but if Bergevin believes his team can win the Stanley Cup this year he makes the trade.

By acquiring Duchene, you get a player who is better and younger than Desharnais. Given that he is signed for two more seasons, Montreal should be more willing to trade a prospect and picks for the Avalanache center. Trading for Duchene is not a short-term rental. A trade for Duchene solidifies the position for at least two years if not longer.