Photo credit: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images
Kent Hughes is not taking the morning off, even if the GM appears comfortable with his current group.
According to the latest information from David Pagnotta, the priority is clear at the top of the lineup.
“It seems like the immediate want…it’s that right side on that first line”
– David Pagnotta, via the Sheet
It’s fair to say that the Montreal Canadiens need an immediate offensive boost to support their stars. The hole on the right side of the first unit is becoming increasingly difficult for management to ignore.
Let’s be honest: the rebuild plan is moving forward, but Kent Hughes does not want to miss an opportunity to accelerate the turnaround. The GM remains patient while actively shopping for a top-line winger.
The current lineup is showing encouraging signs of progress this season. Montreal holds a record of 18-20-7 for a total of 43 points after 45 games played in the NHL.
The power play, however, has struggled with an efficiency rate of 18.2% so far. Adding an impact forward could energize this facet of the game, which often comes up short in tight contests.
Let’s be honest, fans are waiting for a home-run move to complete the core of young guns. The pressure is slowly building at the Bell Centre as the trade deadline quietly approaches.
A major addition to support Nick Suzuki
Captain Nick Suzuki sits atop the team’s scoring leaders with 42 points in 45 games played. He is also averaging 21:12 of ice time, which is massive for a first-line center.
On his side, Cole Caufield continues to produce with 18 goals and 19 assists to his name. The addition of a talented right winger would help balance the attack and create more space for the team’s two pillars.
Eyes are on emails and phone calls, as the situation could break open sooner than we think. The right-wing market is active, and the Canadiens are definitely in the mix.
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