NHL Rumors: Canadiens GM Kent Hughes on the hunt for another blockbuster trade after Noah Dobson deal

The Montreal Canadiens have had one of the best starts to their season in recent years. In the 2025-26 season, they have a record of 9-3-2 and are near the top of the Atlantic Division, after winning nine out of their first 12 games.

A big reason for this start is Noah Dobson. Acquired from the New York Islanders on June 27, Dobson signed an eight-year, $76 million contract worth $9.5 million per season. The 25-year-old defenseman has one goal and nine assists in 14 games, along with a +5 rating. His puck movement and defensive consistency have made him an important part of Montreal’s blue line.

However, Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes might not be done making moves. Speaking on Daily Faceoff Live on Friday, NHL insider David Pagnotta said Hughes could be preparing for another major trade.

"I think they're going to be a team that's going to be looking, they're going to be lurking, and they're going to be making sure, like they usually do," Pagnotta said. [18:52 onwards] "And Kent Hughes is great at this. He wants to know what's out there. He wants to know who's available. "And if they make another big splash, and they made a big one in the summer, they picked up Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders, or something along those lines—it would not shock me."

Montreal has the flexibility to make such a move. The team holds valuable draft picks and several promising young players, giving Hughes options if the right opportunity arises.

"You know, for this group, they've got a lot, a lot of good young assets, plus still a pretty solid cupboard with respect to draft picks," Pagnotta said.

So, with a deep prospect pool and growing cap space, Montreal could be in a position to add another impact player before the trade deadline in March.

Montreal Canadiens' resurgence as a contender in 2025

After returning to the playoffs last year for the first time since 2021, the Montreal Canadiens are looking more balanced and confident. Captain Nick Suzuki leads the offense with 19 points, while Cole Caufield remains one of Montreal’s top scorers with 10 goals. Montreal’s power play has improved, and its defense has been solid early in the season.

As the season progresses, Montreal appears ready to take another step forward. Whether Hughes makes another blockbuster move or not, the Canadiens are showing signs of becoming a consistent contender in the Eastern Conference.

Wayne Gretzky’s wife Janet responds to critics questioning his loyalty to Canada, Bobby Orr's support following 4 Nations drama

Edited by Ankit Kumar