In connection with the veteran goaltender's departure at the trade deadline, he outright stated that if it weren't for the New Jersey Devils, Kent Hughes simply wouldn't have found a trade partner for Allen's services.
This speaks volumes, not only about the league-wide interest in Allen but also about the masterful job Hughes did in trading him and getting an unexpectedly good return for him, despite the nonexistent market for his services.
Getting a third-round pick for him, which could even improve depending on the next season, is nearly miraculous for the Canadiens.