NHL trade rumor: NHL trade twist as Canadiens and Blues reportedly engage Islanders over $12,000,000 defenseman per insider leak
NHL-St. Louis Blues teammates (Credit by: Getty Images)
The
NHL
trade rumor mill is gaining momentum, and the latest spark comes from reports involving the Montreal Canadiens and St. Louis Blues. Both franchises are reportedly 'engaged' in discussions with the New York Islanders regarding one of the league's most expensive blueliners.
According to a multiple league insiders have pointed to serious activity surrounding the Islanders' defenseman, whose annual cap hit sits at a staggering $12,000,000.
Insider drops BOMBSHELL St. Louis Blues Trade report...
Montreal Canadiens seek blue line reinforcement
For the Montreal Canadiens, the pursuit of a high-end defenseman aligns with their long-term rebuild goals. Despite a young and promising core featuring Kaiden Guhle and David Reinbacher, Montreal lacks a veteran two-way presence on the back end.
Acquiring a proven top-pairing defenseman could help the Canadiens accelerate their return to contention.
It's worth noting that adding a $12,000,000 contract won't be an easy fit. Montreal must manage its young talent pipeline while also considering future extensions. But if the front office views this move as a bridge to stabilizing the roster, it may be willing to take that leap.
St. Louis Blues aim to reshape their blue line
On the other side, the St. Louis Blues appear equally serious about landing the Islanders' defenseman.
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After missing the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, the team is desperate to revamp its defense corps. With Colton Parayko and Torey Krug both facing criticism for inconsistent play, Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong might be ready to make a headline-making acquisition.
Adding an elite, physical, puck-moving defender could reestablish the identity the Blues had during their 2019 Stanley Cup run. It's a risk, but one that fits the franchise's competitive timeline if Armstrong believes in the core.
Islanders face a critical offseason decision ahead
The New York Islanders now find themselves at a crossroads. After back-to-back first-round exits and a core that has largely plateaued, General Manager Lou Lamoriello may be feeling pressure to reset. If a deal involving their $12 million defenseman materializes, it could signal a shift from win-now mode to a longer-term retool.
Both the Canadiens and the Blues appear serious. The coming days will reveal whether this rumor evolves into one of the biggest trades of the 2025 NHL offseason.
Also Read:
NHL trade rumor: Mitch Marner and his wife Stephanie Marner reportedly spotted house-hunting in Las Vegas, sparking the latest buzz
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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