Itās hardly a secret in the NHL. The Montreal Canadiens are looking to move out Carey Priceās contract before the 2025-26 season. Now, a report around the league hints what Patrik Laineās side might have to part ways with in order to make it happen.
The Canadiens sense they are just steps away from truly contending in the NHL. After last campaignās success, the Habs are leaving no stone left unturned in their pursuit to boost the lineup around Laine and company. On that note, moving on from Priceās $10.5 million contract would help them out big time. It would put Montreal back under cap compliancy, and give them wiggling room to make moves throughout the regular season.
Price isnāt officially retired, but thereās no signs of him playing ever again in the NHL. His last appearance was during the 2021-22 season, and since has been dealing with a knee-injury.
Making it worth it
However, his contract isnāt up until the summer of 2026. Thus, any team taking on his $10.5M cap-hit would have to be compensated by Montreal. As it turns out, the Habs might be facing a bigger bill to foot than they previously envisioned.
Carey Price at the Bell Centre on February 10, 2021.
āI wouldnāt be surprised if teams demand a second-round pick from the Canadiens,ā Renaud Lavoie stated, per TVA. āSerious discussions are likely to accelerate this week as NHL general managers meet in Detroit.ā
see also
NHL News: Sidney Crosbyās Penguins and Connor Bedardās Blackhawks reportedly in the mix to help out Canadiens big time
Potential trade partners
There is no shortage of possibilities for the Habs to deal Priceās contract to. Of course, it makes most sense to ship it off to an organization without Stanley Cup aspirations, whatsoever.
Therefore, it didnāt take long for the veteran goalieās contract to be eyed by the San Jose Sharks, among other clubs. On that note, other potential landing spots include the Pittsburgh Penguins, Chicago Blackhawks, and the Anaheim Ducks.
