According to Trege Wilson from The Hockey Writers, the Montreal Canadiens might consider trading Carey Price this season.
This prediction might not be as risky as it appears, according to the journalist. Carey Price still has two seasons remaining on his contract with an annual salary of $10.5 million.
For Montreal, it would be more strategic to move this salary and reallocate those funds to manage the salary cap or sign players.
Keeping his contract on long-term injured reserve complicates salary cap management due to specific restrictions, and general manager Kent Hughes needs to be cautious.
Since Price will never play again, retaining that salary value would be poor cap management.
Currently, teams like the San Jose Sharks, Calgary Flames, and Detroit Red Wings are near the salary cap floor.
The Canadiens could trade Price's contract for a mid-range draft pick to help these teams reach the floor while avoiding the use of long-term injured reserve.
Trading Price seems to be the best option for the next season.
