Canadiens GM Hughes maps out trade deadline strategy amid strong 2025-26 season

With Montreal near the Eastern Conference summit, Hughes eyes calculated moves—not splashy deals—to keep momentum alive. Will veterans like Evans be the key to deadline success?

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2026 January 7 . 4:11 AM

1 min read

In this image we can see persons playing ice hockey. In the background there are sky, trees,... — In this image we can see persons playing ice hockey. In the background there are sky, trees, buildings, street light, name board and fences.

Canadiens GM Hughes maps out trade deadline strategy amid strong 2025-26 season

The Montreal Canadiens are enjoying a strong season, sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference halfway through 2025-26. General manager Kent Hughes recently held a mid-season review, assessing the team’s progress and outlining plans for the trade deadline and beyond.

Hughes praised the team’s resilience, confidence, and unity, calling their ability to 'play for each other' the most impressive aspect of the season so far. He also highlighted improvements in Juraj Slafkovsky’s game, noting the young forward’s faster skating and quicker play as key factors in his development. Slafkovsky’s shift from the first line to the second was partly driven by his desire to mentor younger teammates on his unit.

The GM identified decision-making maturity as an area needing work. He also acknowledged that carrying three goalies isn’t ideal but confirmed no immediate changes are planned. Looking ahead to the trade deadline, Hughes remains open to deals that strengthen the roster, similar to past acquisitions like Alexandre Carrier, Noah Dobson, and Phillip Danault. However, any moves will depend on availability, cost, and long-term commitment. Veterans like Jake Evans or Johnathan Marchessault could be traded to bring in depth forwards or defensive support, balancing short-term competitiveness with future development.

The Canadiens’ strong position in the standings gives Hughes flexibility as the deadline approaches. His strategy will focus on smart, cost-effective trades that maintain the team’s momentum while addressing roster needs. The next few weeks will determine how active Montreal will be in the market.