Throughout last season, persistent rumors linked Anaheim Ducks player Trevor Zegras to the Montreal Canadiens.
Montreal's general manager Kent Hughes had openly expressed a desire to acquire offensive talent, which fueled speculation about Zegras joining the Canadiens. However, as the season concluded, Zegras remained a Duck, and Hughes acquired Patrik Laine instead.
In the latest edition of the podcast 32 Thoughts, hockey insider Elliotte Friedman confirmed that the Canadiens had shown interest in Zegras. However, with Laine now on board, the chances of Zegras joining Montreal and teaming up with his friend Cole Caufield seem slim.
According to Marco Normandin of HabsolumentFan, a trade involving Zegras and the Canadiens nearly materialized during the last draft. The proposed deal would have sent Zegras and a 2nd-round pick to Montreal in exchange for Logan Mailloux and the 21st overall pick. Kent Hughes ultimately decided to select Michael Hage instead of finalizing the trade, as he was able to secure a player he valued.
As NHL training camps approach, Zegras remains with the team that drafted him 9th overall in 2019. Whether he will be on the move soon remains to be seen.
You can listen to Friedman and Kyle Bukauskas discuss this on their podcast.