Kent Hughes appears to have made his decision on the Canadiens’ second-line centre
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The Montreal Canadiens appear to have settled on a direction regarding the team’s long-discussed second-line center.
According to PM Perron, the Canadiens are not expected to trade for a second-line center this season, with the organization instead putting its faith in Michael Hage.
Perron believes the long-running discussion among Canadiens fans is effectively over for now.
The organization is betting everything on Hage, who is expected to arrive at the end of the season, rather than paying a steep price in a trade to acquire a player like Dylan Larkin, Adam Fantilli, Matty Beniers, or someone similar.
Until then, the plan comes down to one word: patience.
The Canadiens will move forward with the current roster and allow the young prospect to develop without rushing him.
Kent Hughes Has Reportedly Made His Decision: Michael Hage Is His Second-Line Center
The logic is understandable, but it also carries a significant risk.
If Hage isn’t ready, or if his adjustment to the NHL takes longer than expected, Montreal could spend an entire season losing valuable time in its progression toward becoming a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.
In short, Perron summed it up bluntly: the matter is closed, for now.
The remaining question is how long fans will stay patient if the offense struggles out of the gate. One disappointing October, and the pressure will return quickly.
I still see Habs fans hoping for a trade to bring in a 2C. It’s not happening.
The organization has clearly chosen to bet on Michael Hage, who should arrive at the end of the season. Until then, you roll with what you have. Case closed for now. Patience.”
– PM Perron
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Kent Hughes appears to have made his decision on the Canadiens’ second-line centre
Is Michael Hage the future 2nd line C for the Canadiens?