Transaction: David Savard and several Canadiens veterans are (very) available

To trade or not to trade David Savard: that is the question.

Everyone knows how important he is to the Habs. He stabilizes the defence and is a father figure – still within the framework of sport, of course – to the young defencemen.

When he’s in the line-up, let’s just say it shows.

It’s clear that with a profile like his, there’s going to be plenty of demand leading up to the deadline. He’s making $3.5 million a year for another year and a half, but don’t forget that the salary cap will go up next year.

But will he be the only player in town with a year and a half to go? No.

According to The Fourth Period, several Habs players are definitely available. We’re talking about Savard, but also Christian Dvorak, Joel Armia and Jake Allen.

Jake Evans falls into the same category, but he’s not definitely available, according to the site. That said, at the right price, he could leave.

It’s interesting to hear this kind of talk, since it’s obvious that rental players will be discussed. And when I say “rental” players, I mean Sean Monahan, if he’s not extended… and the Tanner Pearson and/or Mitchell Stephens of this world.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean that guys with term will leave.

Note that Michael Pezzetta and Johnathan Kovacevic were not named by TFP. Arguably, their best value is with the Habs at the moment.

Of course, that’s not to say that the club’s veterans are attractive simply because they’re available. Joel Armia remains Joel Armia, after all… and the same goes for Christian Dvorak.

But don’t forget that the Habs still have the opportunity to retain a salary this year. If not, Kent Hughes could also take a bad contract in return for one of his veterans.

We’d be there with Cayden Primeau Jake Allen, right?

In bursts

– He never stops?

– Not to be missed.

– Well done.

– Ethan Bear expected to sign, say Caps? Why not announce when it’s official?

– Oh.