Decision Coming Sooner Than Expected for Sean Monahan? Kent Hughes Will Need to Choose His Fate in the Next Few Months

What will Kent Hughes do at the trade deadline? Will he be offered a contract extension or will he be traded? The 32 teams of the National Hockey League will have until March 8, 2024, to conclude transactions.

Monahan's performance since his arrival is 24 points in 33 games, giving him an average of 0.73 points per game with an average playing time of 17 to 18 minutes. He has accumulated 17 points in 25 games for the 2022-23 season, and currently, he has 8 points in 9 games.

We can say, without a doubt, that it's a very good start to the season! In my opinion, Monahan is more than an offensive contributor; he is a defensively responsible player who plays the famous 200-foot game. He is also formidable in the face-off circle. Since joining the CH, he wins over 55% of his face-offs!

Moreover, he is surely a good mentor for young centers like Suzuki, Dach, Newhook, and even Evans. All signs point to him being a good leader in the locker room. Also, he is 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighs nearly 200 pounds, and is only 29 years old. With such a contribution, has he become indispensable?

Can Kent Hughes sign him to a 3 to 5-year contract with an average salary between 4 to 5 million? Is he worth more than 5 million per year? The other option is, of course, to trade him at the trade deadline. The return could be astronomical if he continues on this trajectory. Is it realistic to believe that the return could be worth a first-round pick AND a good prospect? The Canadiens' management will have a significant decision to make.

What is reassuring is that the club can't really lose. In my opinion, whatever they decide, I believe it's a win-win situation either way! The big concern, of course, remains his health, which has seemed fragile for several years.

In closing, I would like to remind you that Monahan cost us nothing! Oh yes! Future considerations! Moreover, we received a conditional first-round pick for 2025 to take on his contract.

WOW! WHAT A TRADE! And it will continue to benefit the Montreal Canadiens.