Kirby Dach remains in Martin St-Louis' plans, but Edmonton's persistent interest has added another layer to his uncertain future in Montreal.
The Oilers have been linked to Dach for weeks, and Frank Seravalli's latest information suggests their pursuit goes well beyond casual trade interest.
"Edmonton's interest borders on obsession; the Oilers are determined to acquire Kirby Dach at some point, whether it's before the start of the season, at the trade deadline, or next summer as a free agent." - Frank Seravalli
That gives Edmonton several windows to pursue the 25-year-old center. The Oilers don't necessarily need Montreal to make Dach available immediately.
There's also a strong connection between Dach and Edmonton's front office. Stan Bowman was running the Chicago Blackhawks when they selected Dach third overall in the 2019 NHL Draft.
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"Seravalli: Re Kirby Dach future: The interest in Edmonton borders on drooling; the Oilers are intent on acquiring Dach at some point, whether that's before the season starts, at the March 1 trade deadline, or next summer as a free agent - Casino dot org (9/25)"
The relationship now extends deeper into the family. Edmonton acquired Colton Dach, Kirby's younger brother, giving the Oilers another connection to a player they clearly haven't stopped tracking.
Kirby Dach faces pressure in Montreal
For Montreal, the situation comes down to Dach's place in the lineup and what Kent Hughes could receive if Edmonton eventually turns its interest into a serious offer.
Dach appeared in 37 regular-season games last season, producing 8 goals and 15 points. He followed that with 5 points in 19 playoff games during Montreal's run.
His role under St-Louis can no longer be viewed as automatic. Montreal has several options down the middle, and Dach still has to earn the deployment that once appeared reserved for him.
That uncertainty makes the Edmonton connection harder to ignore. Dach is also playing on a one-year contract carrying a $3,600,000 cap hit in 2026-27.
If his position in Montreal's hierarchy slips, Hughes will have to weigh Dach's value to the Canadiens against whatever Edmonton is prepared to put on the table.
Bowman's history with Dach makes this more than a random rumor, while Edmonton's addition of Colton Dach adds another interesting wrinkle.
Seravalli's information also points to patience from the Oilers. Edmonton can pursue a deal now, revisit talks around the trade deadline or wait for another opportunity later.
For Dach, that puts the spotlight squarely on what happens next in Montreal. His performance and St-Louis' deployment decisions could determine how quickly Edmonton's interest becomes something more concrete.
Should the Canadiens trade Kirby Dach to the Oilers?
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