The Montreal Canadiens are coming off a playoff appearance and aim to strengthen their roster this offseason. One trade proposal generated through PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool suggests an eye-catching move: the Canadiens acquiring defenseman Nikita Zadorov from the Boston Bruins.
Proposed Trade:
To Canadiens:
- Nikita Zadorov
To Bruins:
- Owen Beck
- 2025 second-round pick
- 2025 third-round pick
- 2026 second-round pick (from Columbus)
This hypothetical deal appears mutually beneficial. Montreal would add a physically imposing defenseman in Zadorov, while Boston would receive a promising young center and a trio of draft picks. The move would help the Canadiens replace the retired David Savard with another big-bodied blueliner. Zadorov, 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, is known for his aggressive, physical style. He notched 22 points (4 goals, 18 assists) over 81 games this past season. He’s entering the second year of a six-year, $30 million contract with the Bruins, and could be a top target this offseason.
In exchange, the Bruins would acquire Owen Beck, a second-round pick from the 2022 NHL Draft who is projected to be a reliable third-line center. Beck saw limited NHL action this season, appearing in 12 games and recording a single assist. The Bruins would also receive three valuable draft selections, giving them more flexibility and youth as they retool.
Montreal’s Offseason Priorities
The Canadiens are targeting a more physical identity, especially with their young core that made an unexpected playoff run. Despite needing a second-line center, physicality is a priority. NHL insider David Pagnotta reported on May 6 that Montreal wants to add more size and grit both up front and on the back end.
“They want to be a little bit more physical. They want to be a little beefier in this lineup,” Pagnotta stated on The Latest.
With nearly $9 million in salary cap space, the Canadiens have room to maneuver, and Zadorov could be a good fit to bolster their defense.
Zadorov’s Frustrations with Boston
Zadorov was a significant free-agent addition for the Bruins, but the team had a disappointing year. Speaking on April 17, he admitted frustration and emphasized his desire to play a more physical game next season, while also acknowledging the challenge of avoiding penalties due to his size. He led his career with 145 penalty minutes last season, highlighting both his physical presence and discipline issues.
If the trade materialized, Zadorov’s grit could help Montreal become a tougher playoff contender.
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