At 23, Knies is exactly the kind of physical, high-ceiling winger Montreal lacks. He’s 6-foot-3, plays with an edge, and has shown he can produce in a top-six role. Paired alongside Demidov, the combination of size and skill would create matchup nightmares for opposing coaches. His cap hit is manageable at $7.75 million, and his contract aligns perfectly with Montreal’s current core.
Again, the cost would be high. But given that the two teams came very close to a deal already, both sides should understand the parameters. If Hughes is willing to pull the trigger, Knies is the kind of acquisition who would change Montreal’s ceiling.
Alex Tuch, LW/RW — Unrestricted Free Agent
Not every move has to be a blockbuster. Alex Tuch represents the most realistic path to upgrading the top six without depleting the prospect pool. Tuch finished the regular season with the Buffalo Sabres, recording 33 goals and 66 points in 79 games, making him the consensus top unrestricted free agent of a 2026 free agent group that, candidly, lacks star power.
His playoff struggles against the Canadiens (zero points in seven games) may temper his asking price. However, reportedly, he has held steady at around $84 million over eight years, roughly $10.5 million per season. That number is a stretch given Montreal’s cap situation, and the Canadiens’ need for a true second-line center remains the biggest roster priority heading into next season, so Hughes might prefer to allocate cap dollars toward a center rather than another winger.
But if the price softens following his postseason disappearance, Tuch’s blend of size (6-foot-4), two-way ability, and proven scoring makes him a compelling option for a team that could use a little more sandpaper in the top six. Even on a shorter, team-friendly deal, Tuch could fill a meaningful role. The fit is there; it just depends on the price.
The Bottom Line
Hughes has built something real in Montreal. The infrastructure is in place, the young core is legitimate, and the coaching staff under Martin St. Louis has proven it can develop players and win games. What’s missing is that second pillar in the forward group, the player who relieves pressure on Suzuki and opens up the lineup in ways the current roster cannot.
Finding a legitimate second-line center capable of playing with Demidov and unlocking his offensive potential remains the most critical need heading into 2026-27. McTavish addresses that directly. Knies and Tuch address depth and physicality. Hughes doesn’t need all three, but he should go after at least one of them. The calls have already started. The question is whether they lead somewhere.