The Montreal Canadiens have been on the lookout for a top-six forward since the offseason. The club has purportedly kicked the tires on numerous forwards, but none have really seemed to satisfy the team’s needs.
But there could be one forward that might just fit the bill. Specifically, that forward could be Alexander Wennberg of the San Jose Sharks.
Unsurprisingly, the Sharks are off to another dreadful start. They’re 2-6-2 in their first 10 games and don’t look poised to improve much. So, it could just be a matter of time before the selloff begins in San Jose.
That could be a situation the Canadiens could capitalize on this season. Here’s what this trade idea could look like:
Canadiens get:
Alexander Wennberg, F
Sharks get:
2026 second-round pick
Riley Kidney, F
Joseph Veleno, F
The prevailing sentiment is that the Canadiens are reluctant to part with prospects or roster players. In this situation, however, the Habs might have to move one or both. Given the Sharks’ preference to roll with younger players are this point, a prospect like Riley Kidney could make sense for them. Kidney played well enough in the presence, but there’s just no room for him with the big club at this point.
Similarly, Joseph Veleno could be a decent veteran addition for the Sharks. He could play bottom-six minutes, potentially taking on a larger role in San Jose.
As for the 2026 second-round pick, it seems fitting that the Canadiens would give up one of the two they have in hand. A first-rounder would be too much for Wennberg. That’s why a second-rounder would seem a good price to pay.
Wennberg Could Solve Canadiens’ 2C Needs
As it stands, the Canadiens seem to have found stability with Kirby Dach in the 2C role. The problem with Dach, however, is his injury history. He’s dealt with numerous injuries throughout his short career.
Now, if Dach remains healthy, that fact may preclude this entire conversation. But if injuries do become an issue yet again, the Canadiens may have no choice but to make a deal happen.
Then again, trading for Wennberg, even if Dach is healthy, provides the Habs with cover. Having an experienced top-six forward like Wennberg would provide the Canadiens with much-needed security down the middle.
The Canadiens could move Dach to the third line with Jake Evans sliding down to the checking line. Meanwhile, Wennberg could center Zack Bolduc and Brendan Gallagher. That flexibility is something coach Martin St. Louis could certainly utilize moving forward.
Montreal Needs Depth to Sustain Success
The Canadiens have been successful this season. They currently lead the Atlantic Division and look strong. However, the club will need depth to sustain its success. While injuries may not necessarily become a significant issue, keeping the pace could be.
It’s worth pointing out that the Canadiens still have some question marks. Namely, is Ivan Demidov really ready to be a full-time NHL star? Can Zack Bolduc star in the top six all season? What about Oliver Kapanen?
These questions could get a firm answer by adding more depth. So, it’s fair to assume the Canadiens will be looking to add as the trade market begins to unwind this season.
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