Photo credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
We have a major development regarding a trade involving star center Robert Thomas.
The St. Louis Blues are listening to offers for Thomas, which is significant for a team like the Canadiens, who have the assets to pay the price.
For several weeks now, even months, there has been a lot of talk around a clear need in Montreal.
The Canadiens are looking for a stable solution at the second-center position, and rumors always seem to point toward the same type of player.
In Thomas’ case, this isn’t just a name being thrown around randomly.
We’re talking about an established center, capable of producing over a full season, and his numbers back it up.
In 2023-24, he played all 82 games with the St. Louis Blues and filled the scoresheet with 26 goals and 60 assists, for 86 points.
Robert Thomas could be available in a trade, and it’s huge for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens
Where it gets interesting is the “price to pay.”
When a player of this caliber comes up in discussions, it’s not about a minor tweak.
We’re talking about a deal that could cost prospects and a high draft pick, at minimum.
And that’s exactly what makes some fans hesitate.
The Canadiens don’t have to rush, especially with a prospect pool that’s starting to look very appealing.
But at the same time, opportunities like this don’t come around every month, especially when an 86-point center is in the conversation.
“Elliotte Friedman: Re Robert Thomas rumours: It’s either a huge package that makes them say we can’t say no to this, or the other thing I’ve heard is they’re looking for a stud top 6 forward who’s slightly younger than Thomas.”
– 32 Thoughts”
There’s also one detail that really stands out when you look at his 2023-24 season.
Thomas didn’t just produce, he did it while staying disciplined in his game.
He finished that year with 48 penalty minutes, along with a plus-9 rating.
Kent Hughes doesn’t need to promise a trade tomorrow morning.
But making calls, listening, and gauging the market is exactly what a GM should be doing, especially when the name “Robert Thomas” starts getting linked to the Canadiens.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics