The Montreal Canadiens are in a fascinating position, and the latest buzz around Carey Price’s contract is a testament to their forward-thinking approach. While Price has been a cornerstone of the franchise, his unfortunate knee injury and subsequent placement on LTIR have created a complex salary cap situation. With the Canadiens currently over the cap, the idea of trading his contract isn’t just a rumor; it’s a strategic move that could pay dividends down the line.
A Strategic Move for the Montreal Canadiens
The San Jose Sharks have emerged as the frontrunner to acquire Price’s contract, and it’s a move that makes sense for both sides. The Sharks are in a rebuilding phase and need to stay above the salary cap floor, especially if they plan on moving out more veteran players at the NHL trade deadline.
Acquiring Price’s contract, with most of the actual salary already paid out in a signing bonus, is an affordable way for them to do just that. For the Canadiens, this is all about cap flexibility. Trading Price’s contract would allow them to accrue cap space throughout the season, giving them the freedom to make a significant move at the trade deadline, like acquiring a much-needed second-line center.
The Price of Flexibility
Of course, a move like this doesn’t come without a cost. The Canadiens will likely have to sweeten the deal with a mid-round draft pick, perhaps a third-rounder, to entice the Sharks to take on the contract. But that’s a small price to pay for the kind of flexibility that could propel the team to the next level.
Price, with his no-movement clause, isn’t expected to stand in the way of a deal that would ultimately help the team he’s dedicated his career to. This isn’t about getting rid of a franchise legend; it’s about making a smart, strategic decision that will benefit the Montreal Canadiens in the long run.
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