Trade completed a year ago between the Habs and Pens: Hughes secures 3 picks

The Montreal Canadiens have had a bit of a clump in the last few years, becoming one of the lowest-scoring teams north of the border. However, GM Kent Hughes has been working to change that, using clever trade deals to gain rebuilding advantages. Among the most savvy was a trade deal that was initiated about a year ago. This was a three-way trade deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins and San Jose Sharks. The Habs traded out Rem Pitlick and Mike Hoffman, who had both underperformed with the team. In exchange, they received Jeff Petry, Casey DeSmith, Nathan Lagere, and a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.

The trade magic, however, did not stop there. Kent Hughes finagled deals using each of the he acquired in the deal. Jeff Petry was traded only a short time after the Canadiens first acquired him, sending him to the Detroit Red Wings for Gustav Lindstrom and a conditional fourth-round pick in 2025.

His next point of action came with Casey DeSmith, who was traded to Vancouver. The Canucks sent back Tanner Pearson and another 2025 NHL Draft pick, this time in the third round.

Overall, the Canadiens sent away some less valuable players for the three upcoming draft picks. Though not perfect, it does give Montreal a better chance at long-term success in the future. Hopefully, it pans out as well for Pittsburgh and San Jose.

Source: Habs Fanatics
Trade completed between the Habs and Pens: Hughes creates 3 picks