Zachary Bolduc surfaces in trade talks as Canadiens explore key roster needs

Let’s be honest, Anthony Martineau’s question is getting people talking. Trade Zachary Bolduc for defensive help — seriously?

We can agree the guy just arrived and is already showing some very promising things.

Since his arrival on July 1, 2025, in return for Logan Mailloux, Bolduc has brought an energy that was missing on our top lines. He has 10 goals and 13 assists in 57 NHL games this season with the Canadiens.

There’s no doubt about it: Martin St-Louis is using him in the top six alongside Ivan Demidov and Kirby Dach. We’re talking about a 22-year-old who is producing with a -11 rating, sure, but in a role of trust. Why would we already want to move on from him?

It would take a quick fix to stabilize things, but sacrificing the Quebec-born forward with this kind of potential is risky.

Kent Hughes has a major decision to make this summer because Bolduc’s contract is coming up. We’re talking about an extension that could reach $5.74 million per year.

Bolduc has the Canadiens tattooed on his heart. His offensive production has been steady since January, with five assists in his last eight games. You don’t trade him — you build around him.

Why trading Zachary Bolduc now would make little sense for the Canadiens

You can’t ignore the fact that Zachary Bolduc already has 23 points to his name. His transition game is efficient and free of unnecessary miscues. He wins his battles, and his vision is smoother than that of many veterans.

The rebuild plan must not go off the rails because of a momentary panic on defense.

You keep the kid in town — it’s an absolute priority for the show at the Bell Centre.