Speculation about Trevor Zegras potentially joining the Montreal Canadiens has been prevalent on social media for a while. Interest waned when Kent Hughes acquired Patrik Laine, but David Ettedgui reignited the conversation this Monday.
Ettedgui believes now is an ideal time for Hughes to reach out to Pat Verbeek about acquiring the 23-year-old forward. With offensive struggles and injuries, particularly Laine’s, Montreal could benefit from additional support. He elaborated in a Facebook post, suggesting that while the Canadiens should focus on acquiring a right-handed defenseman, they shouldn’t overlook Zegras’s situation. His value is currently low due to a difficult season start, presenting an opportunity for Montreal.
If the Canadiens pass on the chance to acquire Cole Caufield’s friend, they might want to look at the Nashville Predators. Ettedgui argues, “This is the perfect time for the Canadiens to pursue Trevor Zegras. He’s in need of a change, and Montreal is the right team to help him thrive again. Given the current uncertainty in the offense and some forwards’ inconsistent performances, along with Laine’s injury, Zegras could help reinforce the two forward lines. However, if not him, keep an eye on Nashville. I understand the Canadiens are prioritizing a #3 or #4 right-handed defenseman, but opportunities to acquire talented 23-year-olds like Zegras at a low cost are rare.”
As previously noted, Zegras has seen a decline in performance over the seasons, dropping from an average of 67 points in his second and third years to just 23 points last year. There’s potential for him to be revitalized under Martin St-Louis’s guidance; sometimes a new environment is what a player needs to get back on track.
Ultimately, like Patrik Laine, Zegras is a young, talented player who appears to be in search of a fresh start with an energetic, youthful team.
