January 11, 2024 | 6:59Pm ET
TheFourthPeriod.com

CANADIENS EXPECTED TO TRADE MONAHAN

Sean Monahan, forward

The Montreal Canadiens are expected to be active leading up to the March 8 trade deadline and one of their first major moves could be dealing a forward instead of a goaltender.

It has been known that the Canadiens are willing to move goalie Jake Allen, who has one more year left on his contract and owns a seven-team no-trade list. But moving Allen could come after the Habs ship out centre Sean Monahan, who is playing on an expiring contract.

Several teams are looking to add a centre this season, including the Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes, and Monahan could be a prime target.

On “Jets at Noon” on CJOB in Winnipeg earlier today, TFP’s David Pagnotta indicated that the Jets are among the teams interested in Monahan.

Last month, Pagnotta reported the Canadiens would circle back with Monahan about his future and could explore a new deal or look to move him later in the season. It appears the latter is expected to occur.

During today’s edition of “Insider Trading” on TSN this evening, Darren Dreger reported Monahan is likely to be dealt this season and a move could occur sooner than later.

“I wouldn’t surprised Sean Monahan is among the first forwards to get dealt before the deadline,” Dreger said.

It is worth noting the Jets have two scouts scheduled to take in Thursday’s Canadiens game in Montreal as they host the San Jose Sharks.

Monahan, 29, has registered 11 goals and 13 assists for 24 points in 40 games with the Habs so far this season.