As the NHL season unfolds, whispers of a potential blockbuster deal between the Montreal Canadiens and the Philadelphia Flyers have grown louder, capturing the attention of fans and insiders alike.

For months, speculation has swirled through hockey circles, fueled by reports of ongoing conversations between Canadiens GM Kent Hughes and Flyers GM Daniel Brière. Yet, despite the buzz, no trade has come to fruition—until now, perhaps.

Recent developments suggest a new twist in this saga, with a possible solution emerging from Montreal’s own blue line. Is Jayden Struble, the Canadiens’ physical and promising young defenseman, about to become the missing piece the Flyers have been searching for? With NHL insider Elliotte Friedman hinting at Philadelphia’s urgent need for defensive depth, all eyes are on Hughes to see if he’ll seize the opportunity to make a move that could reshape both franchises.

But what would this mean for the Canadiens’ future, especially with rising stars like Adam Engstrom and David Reinbacher waiting in the wings? And how might Struble’s departure impact the team’s chemistry and playoff hopes? The answers remain tantalizingly out of reach, but one thing is certain—this story is far from over. Read on to uncover the latest twists in this unfolding drama.

Photo of Canadiens and Flyers

Photo credit: Habsfanatics/NHL

For the past few months, trade rumors involving the Montreal Canadiens and the Philadelphia Flyers have been circulating.

Everything indicates that Daniel Brière and Kent Hughes have had extensive discussions, but nothing seems to be materializing.

That said, the Canadiens may now have a name that could interest the Flyers and that could be available here.

Jayden Struble: a player who could interest the Flyers?

We know they’re looking for physical players, and according to Elliotte Friedman, they’re seeking to add depth on defense.

“Not sure we’re going to see much trade action too early, but Philadelphia is definitely checking what’s out there on defence.”

– Elliotte Friedman

Could this be a good opportunity for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens to trade Jayden Struble and recall the young Adam Engstrom?

It’s worth remembering that Struble is currently the “extra” defenseman in Montreal, especially considering that Arber Xhekaj has solidified a new role and his spot as the sixth defenseman.

Jayden Struble, 23, is a left-shot defenseman, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 207 pounds.

The Canadiens’ 46th overall pick in 2019 (second round) has totaled 23 points and 109 penalty minutes in 112 career games in the NHL.

Last season, he scored 13 points in 56 games while maintaining a +2 plus-minus rating.

He also played two games with the Laval Rocket.

With the emergence of young players like David Reinbacher and Adam Engstrom, Kent Hughes will inevitably eventually need to trade a defenseman like Struble.

To be continued!