According to The Athletic’s James Mirtle, we should watch out for the Montreal Canadiens when it comes to Vincent Trocheck and the trade deadline.
He writes:
“The Canadiens’ biggest hole all season has been at center, and it will be a battle at the deadline for the limited options that can fill a contender’s 2C role. Even at 32, Trocheck certainly fits that description, and the fact that he comes with a reasonable cap hit one term will help the Habs bridge the gap as their youth movement progresses.”
Mirtle admits that Trocheck’s size could be a factor, as he isn’t the biggest player. But what he lacks in size, he makes up for in hockey smarts and can play in all situations. If the Canadiens need him, they can put him on their top power play unit as a high-end playmaker.
Mirtle added: “He could also take some of the heavy matchup burden from Nick Suzuki and serve as a strong mentor for Ivan Demidov.”
Are there any potential hurdles in the Canadiens trade for Trocheck?
If there is a potential hiccup, it could be because Trocheck has a modified no-trade list where he can pick 12 teams he doesn’t want to go to. As an American who has never played for a Canadian team, it is unclear whether he would welcome the idea of going to Montreal.
This is not a rental contract for a period of only a few months. Trocheck would have to accept spending the next three seasons in a passionate Canadian market. He may be able to do that, but the Montreal market has its pros and cons.
The good news is that Montreal is an exciting, up-and-coming team and he will join them on their way up. For the remainder of his current contract, he would have a chance to win a Stanley Cup.
Next: Canadiens’ top trade target left out: Plan B locked up?
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