Potential Canadiens-Devils trade involving Michael Hage gains backing
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The Montreal Canadiens could have a major decision to make this summer regarding Michael Hage.
His answer is clear: he would do it without hesitation.
And the idea is worth examining.
Hage surprised many people by deciding to return to the NCAA for another season at the University of Michigan instead of making the jump to the professional ranks.
This is not a criticism of the young player.
But his decision does not seem to align with the Montreal Canadiens’ competitive window, which is beginning to open.
Does Michael Hage’s return to the NCAA change the Montreal Canadiens’ plans?
General manager Kent Hughes is looking for a second-line center to complete his center depth behind Nick Suzuki.
At best, Hage is not expected to be an option until the very end of next season.
And the Montreal Canadiens appear more ready than ever to take the next step.
Hischier would be the perfect complement to Suzuki down the middle.
In fact, he would also be an ideal center to play alongside Ivan Demidov.
Will Hage’s return to the NCAA make the Montreal Canadiens more open to the idea of trading him this summer?
We still do not know whether the Devils’ new general manager, Sunny Mehta, will be willing to trade Hischier after taking over the position.
But Hischier will enter the final year of his contract in 2026-27, and if he does not want to extend his stay in New Jersey, a door could open.
A situation to watch this summer!
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Potential Canadiens-Devils trade involving Michael Hage gains backing
Should the Montreal Canadiens trade Michael Hage to acquire Nico Hischier?