FILE – Montréal Canadiens’ Brendan Gallagher in action during an NHL hockey game against the Philadelphia Flyers, April 14, 2026, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton, File) The exit of Brendan Gallagher brings an end to one of the most recognisable eras in the history of the Montreal Canadiens. The veteran winger was sent to the Vancouver Canucks in an off-season trade that immediately became one of the NHL’s biggest stories of the day.Gallagher spent 14 seasons in Montreal, and his leadership, work ethic and all-out style became synonymous with the identity of the Canadiens. His departure has triggered an outpouring of emotion from teammates and supporters as the club braces for life without one of its longest-serving players.
Brendan Gallagher exit closes lengthy Montreal Canadiens chapter
The trade immediately ends an era for the Montreal Canadiens as Brendan Gallagher leaves after 911 regular-season games with the franchise.
How did Brendan Gallagher become a Montreal Canadiens leader
Drafted in the fifth round of the 2010 NHL Draft, Gallagher became one of Montreal’s most respected voices in the locker room. He played 14 seasons with the team, scoring 246 goals and adding 241 assists while becoming a fan favourite for his physical style and dedication to the organization.
What Montreal Canadiens teammates said about Brendan Gallagher
Gallagher has been a mentor for the younger players, said team captain Nick Suzuki. He’s shown them what it means to be a leader, the responsibility of being a Canadien.Caufield said Gallagher was one of the most influential teammates of his career, and praised the veteran’s path to becoming an NHL regular.Defenseman Lane Hutson also mentioned Gallagher’s professionalism and willingness to help younger players acclimatise to life in the league.
Why Brendan Gallagher believes Vancouver Canucks fit him well
Gallagher said he is excited to join a very talented Vancouver roster and hopes to fit right in with the team’s culture. The 34-year-old veteran said he is ready to do whatever it takes, even though he knows expectations will be higher heading into the upcoming season.The move also gives the Vancouver Canucks more experience after a disappointing season, while the Montreal Canadiens continue to reshape their roster for the future amid growing NHL trade rumours and offseason talk.