|
In Hainsight: Canadiens Open for Business |
|
|
|
|
|
Follow me @KarineHains for all updates about the Montreal Canadiens and women's hockey
TSN 690 asks its listeners today which of the Canadiens’ NHL goaltenders they would trade and which one they would keep between Montembeault, Allen and DeSmith. Personally, I don’t believe Kent Hughes would entertain the thought of trading Mounty. Why? Because while Hughes keeps his cards close to his chest when it comes to the media, he’s been very transparent with his players when it comes to trade. Tyler Toffoli knew he was going; Joel Edmundson was told he wouldn’t finish his contract in Montreal and Mike Hoffman knew moving time was coming as well.
When Hughes concluded the trade with the Penguins, he called Samuel Montembeault to tell him that Casey DeSmith’s arrival wouldn’t have an impact on Montembeault’s situation with the team. The goalie admitted that he did wonder when he heard about the deal, especially since negotiations for a contract extension haven’t started, but Hughes reached out to ensure that Mounty knew exactly where he stood. Given the way Hughes treats his players, it would be shocking if the soon to be 27-year-old netminder was on the market.
As for DeSmith and Allen though, it would make sense. Neither of them has spoken to the Montreal media recently, and if Hughes did tell Allen that he was looking to trade him, the veteran wouldn’t tell the media anyways. As I wrote last week, Hughes didn’t reach out to his new goalie when he acquired him which makes me believe that he’s not sure the keeper is here to stay.
Which one would I trade? Well, to put it simply, I’d trade the one who brings the best return. I believe the market will dictate Hughes’ decision and both goalies’ salary will also be a factor to consider. Allen is signed for two seasons including this one with a $3 850 000 cap hit. Meanwhile, DeSmith is on an expiring deal with a $1 800 000 cap hit. Furthermore, DeSmith is two years younger than Allen and has better stats.
If I’m looking for a goaltender, the better option seems to be DeSmith, especially since Allen has had a lot of injury trouble of late. For now, even though he’s more expensive and injury prone, I think Allen will be the one to stick around mainly because of lack of demand. That’s not necessarily a bad thing though since the Canadiens’ situation in net is far from settled, so having a goalie who’s there for two years is not a bad thing, especially considering that he’s willing to be the second fiddle.
Montreal Canadiens Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»