Major Surprise: Five Key Players Officially Hit the Trade Block

Even though Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton have repeatedly mentioned that the team wants to fight to participate in the spring dance this year, many observers quickly dismissed this possibility due to the injuries that hit Martin St-Louis' lineup at the beginning of the season.

However, against all odds, the Tricolore now finds itself just four points away from a playoff spot, which could greatly complicate the task for the Montreal general manager. Nevertheless, the CH will play 30 games by the trade deadline, and knowing that the team will have difficult opponents in the coming months, the picture could be completely different on March 8.

As we know, if the Tricolore is eliminated from a potential playoff race by then, a few veterans could certainly interest teams aiming for the top honors. In fact, according to information shared by David Pagnotta, five players, including a big surprise, could leave Montreal in the coming weeks.

It's rather surprising to see that Jake Evans' name is among the players who would be available for the Canadiens. The 27-year-old center provides valuable services to the team, earning a very modest salary of $1.7 million per season. Moreover, he seems to be developing excellent chemistry with his new line mates, Sean Monahan and Josh Anderson, who have been very successful offensively, recently.

It would not be surprising if many general managers were interested in acquiring a versatile center capable of playing in the penalty kill and winning important face-offs. He could attract a lot of interest as the trade deadline approaches, being surely a choice addition for a team wishing to improve its bottom six.

It remains to be seen if a team will be ready to offer an attractive return that will force Kent Hughes to part with his center player.