Montreal Canadiens eye offseason trades of Gallagher, Montembeault and others

After reaching the Eastern Conference Final, the Montreal Canadiens face a crowded roster and cap constraints as they plan for the 2026‑27 season. General manager Kent Hughes is expected to move several players. Veteran winger Brendan Gallagher, with a $6.5 million cap hit through 2026‑27, has signaled his desire to leave and could free roughly $17.5 million in cap space. Backup goaltender Sam Montembeault, posting a 3.43 GAA and .872 save percentage this year, carries a $3.15 million hit and is also likely to be traded. Young forwards Kirby Dach and prospect Jayden Struble are listed among the players the club may move to reshape its line‑up.

At the same time, the Canadiens are monitoring A.J. Greer, a Quebec‑native left wing currently with the Florida Panthers. Greer finished the 2024‑25 season with 17 goals and 15 assists and is projected to command a contract in the $2.8‑$4 million AAV range, should he become a free agent. His improved underlying numbers make him a potential acquisition, though his role would likely remain in the bottom six.

The combination of possible departures and the pursuit of affordable depth aims to keep Montreal competitive while addressing salary‑cap pressures.