The trade deadline is looming, and with it, the uncertainty surrounding Jake Evans’ future with the Montreal Canadiens remains palpable. Evans, the 28-year-old forward who has displayed impressive performance this season, is expected to be moved if the right conditions arise.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun recently reported on TSN's "Early Trading" program, stating unequivocally, "I don’t think they’re interested in getting a third-round pick or a fourth-round pick for Jake Evans. That doesn’t move the needle for them. They might as well just keep him and try and stay in a playoff race." This statement encapsulates the Canadiens' firm stance: they have set their asking price for Evans at no less than a second-round pick as they navigate through the upcoming March 7 trade deadline.
The Canadiens find themselves on the outside of the playoff race, and there’s no denying the urgency behind their dealings. The league has witnessed significant interest from multiple teams targeting Evans, with notable inquiries reported from both contending teams and those rebuilding.
Arpon Basu of The Athletic added to the chatter, affirming, "This season, it seems apparent at this point, Jake Evans will be moved," as he highlighted the divergence between the Canadiens and Evans’ camp during contract extension negotiations. It seems the two sides are far apart, with Evans reportedly seeking more than $3.5 million per year, which the Canadiens view as excessive.
The math indicating potential trade moves is even clearer with the Canadiens' available draft capital. According to LeBrun, the team has “a mountain of draft capital” already at their disposal and sees no need to add more as they attempt to stabilize their roster for next season. It’s clear the Habs are targeting value rather than quantity as they contemplate moving Evans, who has recorded 27 points over 58 games this season.
Among the teams expressing interest, sources confirm connections with the New Jersey Devils, Tampa Bay Lightning, Minnesota Wild, and Los Angeles Kings, all of which are eyeing Evans as he is considered the ideal third-line forward for playoff-bound squads. The Canadiens are contemplating packaging Evans with fellow forward Joel Armia, which could significantly increase their return on investment. "The goal for the Canadiens here is to add a third first-round pick in the upcoming draft," wrote Basu.
Trade packages are tricky and involve balancing future gains with present needs, especially for teams like the Canadiens trying to rebuild without becoming overly reliant on rookies next season. Montreal general manager Kent Hughes made it clear he isn’t willing to part with Evans for just any return, especially since losing him to free agency without proper compensation would be detrimental to the franchise's structure.
With under two weeks left until the trade deadline, urgency surrounds discussions involving Evans. Local reports assert he has expressed feelings indicative of moving on from Montreal, which could solidify the current sentiment as this season wraps up.
Looking forward, the market for Evans will heavily depend on his asking price and the willingness of teams to meet it. For contending teams aiming for playoff success, having Evans as part of their lineup could mean getting not only offensive support but also enhanced defensive capabilities, particularly on the penalty kill.
Evans, who carries a cap hit of $1.7 million as part of a manageable contract, offers great value relative to his skills, making him even more appealing during the trade season. With the impending salary cap increase, some teams may feel more comfortable taking on Evans’ potential new contract demands if they believe he can contribute significantly to their playoff aspirations.
Not only has Evans been effective on the ice, but he also serves as a veteran presence helping younger players navigate the NHL. This blend of skills and experience makes him one of the more coveted assets on the Canadiens roster.
Still, time is not on their side. If no agreement is reached before the trade deadline, the Canadiens may decide to part ways with Evans, who cannot appear headed toward free agency on the Canadiens’ watch. If he is not moved, they may suddenly face the prospect of losing him altogether come summer.
Looking at the options, the Canadiens’ management would do well to act decisively rather than letting the trade talks linger. The urgency is evident; the right move could rewrite their strategy leading up to the next season.
With the NHL’s trade market heating up, Jake Evans stands at the center of important decisions affecting the future of the Canadiens. The team is under pressure to capitalize on his value, and with interested parties circling, all eyes will be on Montreal as the clock ticks down on the trade deadline.