Canadiens Pursue Larkin and Scheifele; Hellebuyck's Future in Question
The Montreal Canadiens reportedly tried to persuade Dylan Larkin to accept a trade, but the Detroit Red Wings center remains uninterested in moving to Canada. The Canadiens are also among teams inquiring about Winnipeg's Mark Scheifele, though the Jets would demand a hefty return. Speculation continues about Connor Hellebuyck's status, with Winnipeg weighing whether to keep or trade both Scheifele and their goaltender.
Larkin, 30, has a restricted trade list with Minnesota Wild as his top choice, and he has declined Montreal's overtures. Scheifele, 33, carries an $8.5M AAV contract through 2030-31 with a full no-movement clause this season, and he posted a career-high 103 points last year. His 2021 playoff suspension for a hit on Jake Evans makes him unpopular in Montreal, but the Canadiens' signing of Chris Kreider suggests they can overlook past animosity.
Buffalo, Utah, and San Jose are monitoring Hellebuyck, offering blue-chip prospects, but Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff wants roster players, not futures. Montreal, Toronto, and Edmonton are interested in Marchenko, though Montreal's recent addition of Kreider may pause that pursuit. Additionally, Nikishin seeks a top-three defenseman role, while Robertson is on a one-year contract with Dallas.
The outcome of these trade talks could reshape the competitive landscape in the NHL, affecting playoff races and fan engagement in Montreal, Winnipeg, and beyond. If Hellebuyck and Scheifele are moved, Winnipeg's rebuild could alter the Western Conference balance, while Montreal's pursuit of a top center may impact their long-term cap flexibility. Fans in these markets may experience heightened uncertainty, but such moves also generate excitement and discussion, potentially boosting league interest.