For a players no one wanted, it’s a magistral trade. I eould gave A- for this one. I still think they could have land a better return at the deadline but Hugues didn’t want to bring a player who doesn’t want to be here.

Something else that Montreal gained which is hard to measure. Respect from NHL players, shows the current management will consider the players needs, and that goodwill carries some weight when trying to sign free agents, which is important for a location that struggles to attract the big name players.

Agreed. This was probably one of the biggest factors WHY Hughes didn't wait to get more in value. This deal was simply to facilitate moving Hoffman and Pitlick. Not to squeeze everything out of Petry.

Canucks still have no cap.Pass .

Real smart move by management there

Yes Hugues seem like a class act. He call Montembeault after the trade just to gave him a confidence vote. They are trending in the right direction.

They already add Matheson, a 2nd, Legare, Desmith for Petry and they managed to trade players without having to move assets. Hugues and Gorton have shown creativity with some of the trade they made. The retaining on nect year isn’t that bad since they have so much cap room next year and not many notable prospect. Xhekaj won’t command a lot, Ylonen either. Justin Barron could get a significant raise. I think he will have a solid year. Down the stretch he was pretty good playing with Matheson. 75 games 9 goals 25 assists 34 points.