The Montreal Canadiens may have a chance to address their long-standing need for a high-end second-line center this NHL offseason. However, recent reports suggest their focus could shift away from Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin and toward New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier.
Larkin’s trade request from Detroit has fueled speculation across the NHL, with Montreal frequently mentioned as a potential destination. However, The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun believes Hischier would be the better fit if he ever becomes available.
“Montreal will keep an eye on how the Larkin situation plays out, but to me, Hischier is the best fit for the Canadiens,” LeBrun wrote. “And there’s no doubt the Habs are keeping super close tabs on that, too.”
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LeBrun then talked about Hischier’s fit in the Canadiens’ lineup, saying, “Hischier is a left-handed Nick Suzuki. The fit is beyond perfect for Montreal if Hischier were ever actually available.”
He added that the Canadiens “would be willing to pay a real price and not mess around in that trade scenario.”
Why does Nico Hischier fit the Canadiens’ long-term vision?
New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier (13) looks on against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
Both centers would strengthen a Canadiens team that emerged as an Eastern Conference contender in 2025-26. Montreal finished 48-24-10 with 106 points before reaching the Eastern Conference Final under head coach Martin St. Louis.
Larkin produced 34 goals and 67 points in 74 games despite Detroit missing the playoffs again. His speed, scoring touch, leadership, and faceoff ability would immediately upgrade Montreal’s middle six. With five seasons remaining on his $8.7 million cap hit, he also offers long-term certainty.
Still, Hischier checks more boxes for the Canadiens’ roster structure. The 27-year-old recorded 66 points in all 82 games while continuing to rank among the league’s most effective two-way centers. His strong underlying numbers, including a 55 percent expected-goals share, reinforce his value beyond traditional scoring totals.
So, Hischier’s game complements captain Nick Suzuki almost perfectly. Montreal could deploy two defensively responsible centers capable of driving play in every situation, creating ideal conditions for young stars such as Ivan Demidov and Lane Hutson to continue developing.
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The challenge is availability. Hischier carries a $7.25 million cap hit through 2026-27 and would likely require an extension before any trade. Larkin remains the more realistic target today, but if both players become attainable, Hischier appears to be the option most aligned with Montreal’s championship ambitions.