Montreal GM says Petry hasn't requested trade, but that doesn't mean he's staying

After four straight seasons of 40+ points for the Montreal Canadiens, Jeff Petry has looked like a shell of his former self in 2021-22. In 36 games, Petry has just one goal and four assists and seems really disengaged on the ice at times. That has led some to believe that Petry wants out of Montreal. Habs GM Kent Hughes says if that's the case, Petry hasn't mentioned it.

In an interview with La Presse, Hughes stated Petry has never requested a trade. At the same time, Hughes said Petry may not be staying with the team, adding that's something he told Petry himself during a recent meeting.

"We told him: we are aware of what is happening in your life. This is not the ideal context to play. At the same time, you are part of this team. If there's a chance it will work out on both sides to trade you, we'll trade you. But until this situation arises, you are part of the Canadiens and you have to do your best."

Petry and his wife, both Americans, are apparently having a tough time with some of the COVID restrictions in Canada. Julie Petry recently made an Instagram post stating she and their four children have made the decision to remain in Michigan for the rest of the season to be closer to family and get away from some of the restrictions.

"But it's not an ideal context and right now we don't see any change coming with COVID. It will be a difficult relationship for [Petry and his wife]," said Hughes.

"Besides, Jeff is not the youngest player in the world," Hughes continued. "If it comes up, that we can improve the future of our team and improve the circumstances for Jeff, we will do it. Otherwise, Jeff is part of the Canadiens."

Petry has three seasons left on his current contract after this one, with a cap hit of $6.25 million per season. The 35-year-old has a no-trade clause that allows him to submit a list of 15 teams that he is unwilling to play for.

Source: La Presse

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