Canadiens potential 2018-2019 starting lineup

You are likely correct that Max's trade value will have gone down from the rush of the deadline, but the trade off is that there are more potential dance partners ( I do think you'd likely get a bit more ). Given all the teams that would be interested in Pacioretty, I am not sure what you're getting from St. Louis does all that much for the Habs.

The Habs don't have a cap problem, so I don't see the upside of trading Shaw for Schroeder.

I like the Riley Nash pick up. Right size/length contract. Less thrilled with the Pleks deal as I worry it slows the needed turnover of some of the older assets.

I'll beat the Blues fans to the punch and say you're not getting Thomas for Max

Have been saying since before the deadline (not that Montreal fans wanted to hear it) that I thought Pacioretty would bring back an "A" prospect and a 2nd. . . . . .you've picked a real good prospect. . . .at a position much needed. Not sure St. Louis should/would make the deal, but your offer is at least realistic!

Jackets trade won't happen. Shaw adds nothing useful to the team, and his contract would get in the way of retaining our core.