A recent trade matchmaker piece from The Athletic linking Jonathan Marchessault to the Montreal Canadiens didn’t land the way some NHL insiders may have expected. Instead of excitement, the idea sparked swift and overwhelming pushback from Canadiens fans — many of whom see the rumor as a step backward from the organization’s stated rebuild.
The original context, laid out by Chris Johnston, made logical sense on the surface. Marchessault holds a full no-movement clause, is a Quebec native, and would likely welcome a move to Montreal. The former Conn Smythe winner could add experience and offense to one of the NHL’s youngest rosters, potentially slotting into the top six. Making it work, however, would require money going out — with Patrik Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit identified as the obvious offset.
That’s where the backlash began.
Fans Didn’t Like the Marchessault-to-Montreal Idea All That Much
The dominant reaction from most fans in the post’s comments section was direct. One fan even called it a “lazy” narrative. Marchessault turns 35 this week, is signed for multiple years at a $5.5 million cap hit, doesn’t play center, and isn’t known for his defensive game. For a rebuilding team prioritizing flexibility, youth, and internal development, many see that contract as a poor fit regardless of the player’s résumé.