Harris makes a good 7th D, capable of playing LD or RD. I'd rather keep that option, Texier really doesn't bring anything of value for MTL.

CBJ accept on value, but trading Tex would be dirty. He's finally adjusting to North America again and has become good friends apparently with Voronkov, another guy who's been struggling with the personal adjustment to North America. It's just personally a little too cruel for my liking.

At the same time - you would send him to the only place in North American which is predominantly french.

if we get rid of him i would only see it being to MTL. but i don't think they'll get rid of him just yet

Yes, definitely the best destination if we do move him, I'd just hate to move him unless he decides he wants a fresh start.

This makes so much sense for me.

I made this trade on Jan 1st (see my AGM) based on switching similar level players (age, salary, etc.) to a team needing a Dman and willing to give back a big winger.

As a Harris 1 on 1 deal, I can't see a better option. Another less appealing deal was Harris for Pospisil in CGY.

Texier just has a bad time in Columbus. Left the ream because he was homesick and got back only to fell on the 4th line. I'm convinced he could develop better in MTL where he could feel at home. Not only because of the language, but the French community is huge in the city. If he can fix his defense reliability he could become a home run.

On the otherside, there is zero risk about Harris. Does everything right (on both sides), but just doesn't have a high ceiling. He would help stabilize a not very good Dcore. Some CLB fan told me they don't need him because they have depth on the left side, which I laught at because of Werenski injury history.