MAJOR: We Now Know Why Kent Hughes Didn't Trade for Pierre-Luc Dubois

Dubois openly expressed his interest in joining the Canadiens, but as a restricted free agent, he couldn't sign with the team last summer. Any move would have required a trade, and it appears the Winnipeg Jets' asking price for Dubois was too high for Kent Hughes, the Canadiens' General Manager.

A recent article by Alexandre Gascon from Radio-Canada revealed the identities of the two players the Jets were interested in, which Hughes categorically refused to trade for Dubois.

The first player was already known: Winnipeg wanted center Kirby Dach to replace Dubois. Given Dach's favorable contract, his age, and his potential, Hughes, understandably, was not willing to part with the CH's number 77, who was acquired just a year earlier.

The second player, now confirmed, that the Jets demanded was Kaiden Guhle. Once again, Hughes declined the request. Considering the young defenseman represents the future of the club's defense at only 21 years old, Hughes's reluctance is clear.

With Dubois signing an eight-year contract at $8.5 million per season, it seems Hughes made a wise decision to focus on the long-term development of his players.