Photo credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
The trade market is shaping up to be fierce, and the price to acquire a true number-one center has just reached new heights.
According to information reported by Kypreos, general manager Doug Armstrong has set a selling price deemed “astronomical” for his star player.
“Re Robert Thomas: The price is astronomical, in the vicinity of something equivalent to three top-15 first-round picks. [Armstrong’s] looking for cache in prospects and picks. I don’t know what team would do that.”
– Nick Kypreos, Sportsnet
Kypreos specifies that the acquisition cost is in the neighborhood of a value equivalent to three top-15 first-round picks.
The Blues’ objective is clear: they are looking for a combination of picks and very high-end prospects to replenish their pipeline.
What would that price look like for the Montreal Canadiens?
If this demand is translated into concrete assets within the Canadiens’ organization, the picture becomes quite brutal for their depth.
To match the value of “three top-15 picks,” Kent Hughes would very likely have to sacrifice a trio of untouchable prospects.
In the scenario being discussed, that would mean the simultaneous departure of Michael Hage, David Reinbacher, and another top-tier prospect such as Alex Zharovsky.
Let’s be honest: giving up three cornerstone pieces of the rebuild for a single player, as talented as he may be, represents a massive risk.
Kypreos himself questioned the feasibility of such a deal, admitting he doesn’t know which team would be willing to pay that price.
It’s a reminder that the sellers’ market is absolutely ruthless right now.
Robert Thomas is an exceptional player, but mortgaging the future of both the blue line and the forward group in one move could set Montreal back.
It remains to be seen whether Armstrong is bluffing to drive up the bidding or if he is genuinely prepared to keep his player if no one pays the price.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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The price the Canadiens would have to pay to land Robert Thomas is now known
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