Second center: the Habs could get him in an Alexandre Carrier-style deal

Kent Hughes and the Habs have had a relatively busy summer so far.

The general manager has improved his team by acquiring Noah Dobson and Zachary Bolduc via trade, in addition to signing several depth players.

However, one glaring need has yet to be filled: that of a second center capable of complementing and assisting Ivan Demidov.

There’s still plenty of time before the start of the season, and perhaps management could pull a rabbit out of its hat.

It could come in the form of another trade or a hostile offer sheet to a restricted free agent.

However, it’s also possible that the Canadiens have finished their summer shopping.

So, no first-rate second center to start the season?

Yes, but that’s not necessarily a problem.

First of all, even without a second center, the Habs have improved and should be better next season.

Secondly, it’s possible that the solution lies internally.

The Canadiens have several players who could potentially fill this role, such as Bolduc, but also Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook, who could benefit from Demidov’s talent to reach their full potential.

And finally, a season is a long time, and some teams with a disappointing start to the campaign could quickly find themselves on the selling side.

Especially since the presence of Gavin McKenna at the next draft, who is seen as a very good prospect, could encourage teams to tank in order to get the first pick or acquire first-round picks.

According to Marco D’Amico, in an article published on RG, the McKenna lottery could well influence the transaction market, which is likely to become more active after the American Thanksgiving.