Montreal Canadiens Poised to Trade Carey Price's Contract

The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly on the verge of trading the contract of goaltender Carey Price, who has not played since the 2021-22 season due to injuries. With one year remaining on his contract, which carries a $10.5 million cap hit but only $7.5 million in actual salary owed, the Canadiens are seeking to alleviate their current salary cap situation, which is approximately $6 million over the limit. The expected trade could occur shortly after Price's final signing bonus of $5.5 million is paid on September 1, 2025.

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The Canadiens' motivation to trade Price's contract is primarily financial. The team has struggled to navigate the complexities of the salary cap, particularly with Price's contract weighing heavily on their flexibility. Historically, the Canadiens have utilized Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) to manage their cap situation, but this year, they face stricter compliance requirements. By moving Price's contract, they would not only become cap compliant but also gain the flexibility to pursue additional roster improvements, particularly in acquiring a top-six center.

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Several teams are being considered as potential trade partners for Price's contract. The San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Anaheim Ducks are among the frontrunners, as they are currently near the salary cap floor and could benefit from absorbing Price's contract as "salary floor insurance." The Sharks, in particular, are noted for their need to maintain cap compliance while rebuilding their roster.

Price’s Contract Could Be Traded to One of Three Teams Ahead of Bigger Move

Canadiens Executive Vice President Jeff Gorton has indicated that the team is not rushing to make a trade, stating, “We don’t look at it like opening day as the end of when you can change your roster.” This sentiment reflects the Canadiens' willingness to wait for the right opportunity to present itself in the trade market.

“More Roster Flexibility”: Price Move Key to Habs’ Fall Trade Strategy

While the Canadiens are optimistic about moving Price's contract, some analysts caution that the trade market is currently slow, which may complicate their efforts. The limited number of teams willing to take on a significant contract could lead to a standoff, as teams may demand steep returns for quality forwards. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential tax implications for Price if he is traded to a U.S. team, which could affect his willingness to waive his no-trade clause.

Why Tax Rules Could Complicate a Carey Price Trade

As the Canadiens prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on finalizing the trade of Price's contract. This move is seen as a precursor to further roster adjustments, particularly in acquiring a center to bolster their lineup. The Canadiens are expected to remain active in the trade market as they evaluate potential targets and assess the evolving landscape of the NHL.

Canadiens Could Add Forward After Imminent Carey Price Trade

• “I can’t see the Canadiens going into the season with that anchor on their salary cap.” — Marco D’Amico, RG.org

“More Roster Flexibility”: Price Move Key to Habs’ Fall Trade Strategy

• “I've heard Price's contract being in play for a while, things should shake loose as of September 1st or soon after.” — NHL Source

Montreal Canadiens Expected to Finalize Carey Price Deal, Eye Second Trade Soon

• “There are a lot of teams around the league that add players after that and all the way up to the deadline, so we’re comfortable with where we’re at and the moves we’ve made.” — Jeff Gorton, Canadiens Executive Vice President

“More Roster Flexibility”: Price Move Key to Habs’ Fall Trade Strategy

The Canadiens' strategy hinges on successfully navigating the trade market to not only relieve their salary cap burden but also to position themselves for a more competitive season ahead.

Canadiens Could Add Forward After Imminent Carey Price Trade