The moment a franchise center’s contract talks stall, the vultures start circling. And right now, the Montreal Canadiens are perched and waiting. According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun at The Athletic, several teams, most notably the Montreal Canadiens, are heavily monitoring what happens to New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier this summer.
The 27-year-old elite two-way pivot has just one year left on his current deal at a highly team-friendly $7.25 million cap hit, and he becomes eligible to sign a massive extension on July 1. While Devils general manager Sunny Mehta and Hischier’s agent, Allain Roy, have reportedly had “amicable and positive” preliminary talks, Mehta will demand clarity immediately. LeBrun accurately points out that New Jersey cannot afford the distraction of entering next season with their captain on an expiring contract. If Hischier hits the summer trade market, Montreal has the prospect capital, the draft picks, and the desperate need down the middle to pull off a franchise-altering blockbuster.
Why a Nico Hischier Trade Makes Sense for the Montreal Canadiens
From a roster-building perspective, placing a Selke-caliber center like Hischier alongside Nick Suzuki would give the Montreal Canadiens one of the most formidable one-two punches in the Eastern Conference. Montreal’s rebuild is transitioning into a competitive phase, and general manager Kent Hughes has never been shy about pulling the trigger on summer blockbuster trades for established young talent (just look at the Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook deals).
However, LeBrun notes that an extension in New Jersey remains the most likely outcome, despite discussions being at an “early and delicate stage.” But this is where the salary cap economics get fascinating.
What a Blockbuster Extension Means for the New Jersey Devils
My take as an NHL cap analyst: keeping Hischier is going to require backing up the Brinks truck. A new eight-year extension could cost the New Jersey Devils upwards of $13 million annually. Yes, they project to have over $47 million in cap space for 2027-28 (the first year of Hischier’s new deal), but that money will vanish quickly.
A new contract for young star defenseman Simon Nemec this summer could easily eat up $9 million per season on a long-term deal. The Devils will have to perform some serious cap gymnastics to keep their core intact. The most likely offset? Finding a suitable trade destination for veteran blueliner Dougie Hamilton to clear the books. If Mehta balks at $13 million for Hischier, Montreal will be the first team on the phone.
Nico Hischier Career NHL Stats
| Type | GP | G | A | P | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 609 | 199 | 289 | 488 | 15 |
| Playoffs | 22 | 6 | 6 | 12 | -9 |
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