Jake Allen Trade: a Likely Target of Kent Hughes Has Emerged

Indeed, according to what he has heard, the Uzbekistan-born forward, Arthur Kaliyev, is now available and could be involved in a trade aimed at bringing reinforcements for the playoffs.

Wow! That's interesting!

We are talking about a young 22-year-old forward with an imposing frame (6'2" and 210 pounds) who also has excellent flair around the opponent's net. Known for his scoring abilities, the 33rd overall pick in 2019 had seasons of 51 and 44 goals in his last two years in junior ranks.

Although he no longer seems to be in the Kings' future plans, the right winger has shown he possesses very interesting offensive potential with a harvest of 13 goals and 15 assists (28 points) in 56 games last season. However, he has had some difficulties this year contributing consistently, with only 14 points in 38 games.

Simply put, he greatly resembles the type of player targeted by Kent Hughes in his recent trades. In his career, Kaliyev has recorded 70 points in 175 games, a situation that really resembles those of Kirby Dach (59 points in 152 games) and Alex Newhook (66 points in 159 games).

Knowing that teams are aware he is available on the trade market, could Kent Hughes try to make a big move by acquiring him? After all, the Kings' forward could certainly benefit from a change of scenery to flourish under another head coach.

Personally, I would much rather see the Canadiens get their hands on a promising young forward like Arthur Kaliyev than a late pick in a trade involving Jake Allen. Now it remains to be seen if Rob Blake will be ready to sacrifice his former second-round pick to add depth in goal.

Given the veteran's currently low value, Kent Hughes might need to add a little something (draft pick) to make this trade happen.

Kaliyev possesses immense talent and a devastating shot; he could represent a very interesting option for Montreal's top-6 in the coming years.

Jake Allen and a fourth-round pick for Arthur Kaliyev, would you do it?

Credit: Habs et LNH