Montreal Canadiens make draft day trade ahead of what could be Blockbuster move

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Josh Tupper
June 28, 2024 (1:50 PM)

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A agreement between the Los Angeles Kings and Montreal Canadiens gives the Habs a higher selection in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft, and more is anticipated.

General Manager of the Montreal Canadiens Kent Hughes appears determined to move as high up the draft order as possible in 2024, and there may be more changes to come. A transaction involving first-round choices has been struck between the LA Kings and the Canadiens.

Hughes moved up five spots in the first round of the draft tonight by trading the Kings the 26th overall pick, the 57th (second round), and a seventh round pick. The Kings' 21st overall pick is given to the Habs tonight in exchange for the three picks.

"We've acquired the 26th, 57th and 198th overall selections in the 2024 NHL Draft from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for the 21st overall pick.

Full Release 📝 https://bit.ly/3VLTQ8r"

The Canadiens already have the 5th overall pick in the 2024 Draft, but TSN's Darren Dreger says Hughes still isn't satisfied, and is hoping to snag another top-10 pick if he can find the right deal.

"Will be interesting to see if Hughes is able to work more magic. He's hoping to add another top 10 pick and is listening to interest in moving up or slightly down from 5. He's also involved in a number of player related discussions."

In the 2024�25 season, the Canadiens have some living to do, particularly in the eyes of General Manager Hughes and Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Jeff Gorton. Both were brought in to turn the team around when it was at its worst, and the Canadiens will have to start turning things around quickly to avoid a lot of criticism from observers, supporters, and the ownership group.

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Was this trade with the LA Kings worth it for the Montreal Canadiens when it comes to moving up in the 2024 NHL Draft?
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No	15	18.5 %
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