As the NHL offseason heats up, one of the most talked-about names on the trade market is Alexis Lafrenière — and it appears the Montreal Canadiens are leading the chase.
Multiple league sources have confirmed that the Canadiens have shown serious interest in acquiring the 2020 first overall pick from the New York Rangers, positioning themselves as the front-runners should a deal materialize in the coming weeks. Talks are said to be progressing, though no agreement is official yet.
Lafrenière, still just 23, has been the subject of trade rumors for months following a somewhat inconsistent stint with the Rangers. While his development has taken longer than expected, he’s coming off a career-best season with 22 goals and 30 assists, showing signs that he may be ready for a bigger role — something Montreal is reportedly ready to offer.
A move to the Canadiens would also mark a homecoming for the Saint-Eustache, Quebec native, who was once seen as a future franchise cornerstone. Montreal’s front office, led by GM Kent Hughes, has long admired Lafrenière’s game and believes that a change of scenery and a top-line opportunity could help unlock his full potential.
For the Rangers, moving Lafrenière would provide cap flexibility and potentially bring back valuable future assets. With several high-priced veterans on the roster and young players emerging, New York may be looking to retool without a full rebuild.
Though no official details have emerged regarding what Montreal would send in return, speculation includes a package featuring draft picks and prospects.
Lafrenière’s name has been floated in trade circles before, but this is the clearest indication yet that a move could be imminent — and that Montreal may be his next destination.
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