Kent Hughes says using the Canadiens' first-round pick changes nothing for their trade talks, a signal Montreal isn't done dealing.
The quote was short and pointed. Asked by Arpon Basu whether having used the pick impacts any trade discussions, Hughes answered, "It changes nothing for us."
Read the translation. The first-rounder wasn't Montreal's trade currency, and the Habs are still working the market for an addition.
The backdrop frames it. Montreal used the 26th selection on a prospect, then made clear its trade pursuits roll on regardless of that.
And those pursuits are well documented. Pierre LeBrun reported the Canadiens monitoring Vincent Trocheck after getting told no on Bo Horvat and Kirill Marchenko.
Hughes kept the door wide open.
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The center hunt that's still very much alive
Start with the team picture. Montreal sits 6th overall under Martin St-Louis, a rising group built around Nick Suzuki's 101 points and Cole Caufield's 88. A top-six addition is the logical next step.
The "changes nothing" line is the tell. Keeping the pick and still chasing trades says Hughes has other assets and avenues. He didn't need the first-rounder to make a move.
The market reality shapes the path, too. The Habs have already heard no's on Horvat and Marchenko, so an upgrade runs through other names. Hughes staying in it says he hasn't given up.
The timing pushes it. With the draft done and free agency at the door, this is the window, and a GM signaling continued activity means Montreal could still strike.
Here's my read: this is a GM telling you he's not finished. Montreal is a good young team that wants to add, and "it changes nothing" is Hughes keeping every option open. The center search is live.
So the Canadiens used a pick and kept their trade powder dry.
Whether Hughes lands a center by trade or pivots to free agency is the thread to follow. Not done dealing.
Will Kent Hughes land Montreal a top-six center this offseason?
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