The Montreal Canadiens made a significant move before the NHL’s roster freeze by acquiring forward Phillip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a 2026 second-round draft pick. Danault, a name frequently mentioned in recent trade rumors, is now officially back with the Canadiens and eager to make a strong impact.
Danault joins Montreal during a challenging season for him, having played 30 games with the Kings this year without scoring a goal but contributing five assists. Despite his struggles, there is reason to believe Danault can regain his form with the Canadiens, as his recent track record demonstrates his capacity to perform well.
Over the last four seasons, Danault has consistently scored 40 or more points, including last season when he played 80 games with the Kings, tallying eight goals and 43 points. Given his history, a rebound with Montreal is quite plausible, especially since he was a great fit for the team during his previous tenure, where he played 360 games, scored 54 goals, provided 140 assists, amassed 194 points, and had a plus-47 rating.
Fan Take: This trade is exciting for hockey fans because it marks the return of a reliable and proven player who knows the Canadiens well, potentially boosting the team’s performance. It also underscores the dynamic nature of the NHL, where players and teams constantly evolve, keeping the competition fresh and engaging.
