Canadiens Have 3 Notable Roster Needs To Address
The Montreal Canadiens made two significant moves when they signed Ivan Demidov and Jakub Dobes to contract extensions earlier this month. Yet, other than that, it has been a pretty quiet start to the off-season for the Canadiens.
While this is the case, the Canadiens still have plenty of time to make some moves before the start of the season. When looking at their roster, there are three areas that they could look to upgrade.
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With that, let’s look at three roster needs that the Canadiens could aim to address this off-season.
Need No. 1: Top-Six Center
The Canadiens’ top need is an upgrade at their second-line center spot. However, the Habs’ options to bring in a top-six center are very limited at this point in the off-season. That should not stop the Canadiens from trying, though. A few names who have come up in trade rumors this off-season include Dylan Larkin, Mathew Barzal, and Shane Wright.
Need No. 2: Top-Four Right-Shot Defenseman
The Canadiens could also look to bring in a top-four right-shot defenseman this off-season. When looking at their blueline, it is clear that their right side could use a boost. This year’s top UFA right-shot defensemen have found their new homes, but there are still several trade candidate blueliners.
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Need No. 3: Top-Six Winger
If the Canadiens strike out in finding a top-six center, it would not hurt for them to bring in another winger for their top six. Bringing in another winger for their second line would undoubtedly benefit the Habs as they look to continue to trend in the right direction. Anthony Mantha, who had 33 goals and 64 points in 81 games last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, is the best UFA still available for the taking.
