Does Edmontons mini surge make them more desperate or less desperate

Less desperate - and if I am EDM I’d be more interested in Monahan depending on the price then Allen.

I think EDM is going to be looking at more than just a goalie. They need some productive depth and plug some questions on defense. I can see a package coming from MTL if they're really interested, I feel like we have some of the players that could solve most of those issues. At the very least we could alleviate a bit of cap for a price so they can acquire other pieces.

Edmonton should be concerned about having someone to turn to immediately if they hit another rough patch.
They don't really have the breathing room to endure losing streaks and it's imperative they avoid a "here we go again" mental hump.
Skinner needs to be able to have a bad game now and then without it affecting his confidence. If they have another guy to turn to, he can have the time to get his bearings rather than the pressure of being thrown right back in for the next game.

Montreal's situation has changed with the Montembeault signing. Allen should be more affordable now, as they will be actively shopping him (without retention).
Campbell is only a possibility if Primeau is waived (regardless of a claim), it signals they do not view him as an option at the NHL level. Then they may be willing to parlay Allen into Campbell (for the right price of course).
The price to dump Campbell hasn't changed however. It's likely to cost a 1st and one of Holloway or Bourgault (or Broberg if it's to a different team, Habs wouldn't need him).
I don't think Montreal should take on Campbell's contract, but based on current projections they can probably afford to. If Primeau isn't in the plans, it will be a few years before another option is ready. If Campbell can at least regain backup form we can manage and that would be the hope/gamble in such a move beyond the assets acquired.

If I'm Edmonton, with Montembeault off the block, I'd be looking at goaltenders under $1M and eating Campbell's contract for now. If they are in the playoffs at the deadline however, they should do whatever is necessary to convert Campbell's cap into someone who will help them for at least year's playoff run.

I don't see it that way, nothing wrong with rolling Montembault and Primeau while Campbell plays in Laval. If Primeau faulters (like he did last night) or Montreal has an injury maybe Campbell will be ready to return to the NHL at some point.

The habs just need to be careful they don't hurt there chances of contending down the road as Campbell has another 3 years after this one, but for a 1st and Bourgeault or Holloway they likely have to consider making that deal.

I say that because I don't see Montreal taking Campbell unless they intend to give him a fresh start and get at least backup value for that cap hit. Neither of those is happening if he's in the minors. First step to rehabilitation for Campbell, is making him feel like he's wanted and has a place with a team that doesn't care if it takes him a bit to find his game.