Montreal Canadiens target Bruins’ Zacha for second-line upgrade
The Boston Bruins find themselves in a delicate position as trade rumors swirl around Pavel Zacha, a second-line center who has garnered interest from multiple teams, including the Montreal Canadiens and Calgary Flames. Though the Bruins are not actively seeking to offload the 28-year-old forward, they have received inquiries from several clubs regarding his availability.
Interest from Multiple Teams
According to a recent report, Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney is open to listening to offers but is not shopping Zacha actively. An anonymous league executive revealed, “The Canadiens definitely have interest in Zacha and have inquired about him, but they’re not the only team. Several teams — I’m told the Flames are one — continue to express interest in him.” This places Zacha in a spotlight, as teams increasingly look to bolster their rosters with a solid second-line center.
The Canadiens have emerged as a prominent suitor for Zacha, but they are not alone. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks have also been linked to the pursuit of a top-six center, intensifying the competition in the trade market.
Bruins’ Trade Strategy
While the Bruins are not in a rush to make any moves, a challenging start to the season could prompt them to reconsider their stance. A source indicated, “I don’t see this as something that would happen before American Thanksgiving. If the Bruins get off to another brutal start and the Holiday trade freeze is looming, well, then this could become a lot more than just listening.” The prospect of being outside the playoff picture by mid-December could lead Boston to explore their options more seriously, not just with Zacha but with other players as well.
Potential Offers from Montreal
The Canadiens are reportedly willing to make a significant offer for Zacha, who is in the third year of a four-year, $19 million contract. Speculation suggests that Montreal could include prospects Joshua Roy and Oliver Kapanen in their bid. Additionally, defenseman Jayden Struble’s name has surfaced as part of the potential package. However, sources indicate that the Bruins might require more than just these names to consider a trade. “I know he’s a guy they’ve liked, but it would take more than him to acquire Zacha,” the source noted.
To truly entice the Bruins, the Canadiens may need to sweeten the deal with additional assets, potentially a high draft pick or another promising prospect. With the Canadiens actively seeking a second-line center throughout the summer, Zacha fits the bill, especially considering the injury concerns surrounding Kirby Dach.
Canadiens’ Playoff Aspirations
Montreal is positioning itself as a playoff contender following last year’s postseason appearance. The team views Zacha as a necessary upgrade, providing depth and stability to a lineup that could face challenges if Dach is unable to play a full season. Meanwhile, the Bruins, while still possessing a strong core, appear to be at a crossroads as they navigate their own potential decline.
For the Canadiens, the path to securing Zacha may be straightforward, but it hinges on their willingness to meet Boston’s asking price. As the trade deadline approaches, the dynamics of this potential deal could shift dramatically, particularly if the Bruins find themselves struggling to stay in the playoff race.
