Three Canadiens named top trade candidates

NHL insider Frank Seravalli has identified three Montreal Canadiens players as potential trade candidates in his latest NHL trade board for Hockey 24/7. Samuel Montembeault ranks at No. 19, having been surpassed on the depth chart by Jakub Dobes and Jacob Fowler last season.

Montembeault's performance in 25 games included a 10-8-4 record, an .873 save percentage, and a 3.43 goals-against average, leading the Canadiens to consider moving him. Kirby Dach, placed at No. 22 on the trade board, is a pending restricted free agent who could be dangled if the Canadiens do not see him as a long-term fit.

In 37 games this past season, the 6-foot-4 forward scored eight goals and recorded 15 points, along with 53 hits. Lastly, Brendan Gallagher comes in at No. 34. Gallagher acknowledged at the end of the season that his time in Montreal might be ending, and the Canadiens are actively looking to trade him.

He finished last season with seven goals, 23 points, and 98 hits over 77 games. As the trade deadline approaches, these three players are under watch, potentially impacting the Canadiens' roster and future dynamics.

According to Yahoo Sports NHL, the Canadiens could be a team to watch in the ongoing trade activity amidst a weaker free agency class this year.