Canadiens and New Jersey Devils complete trade involving Johnathan Kovacevic

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Gabriel Sami
June 30, 2024 (6:13 PM)

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The Montreal Canadiens have dealt defenseman Johnathan Kovacevic to the New Jersey Devils.

NHL insider Frank Seravalli broke the news of the Canadiens defenseman, aged 26, being traded today. However, he did not disclose the complete details of the deal. Fortunately, fellow insider Chris Johnston provided clarification, revealing that the player was traded to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for a 2026 4th round pick.

The Montreal Canadiens have traded defenceman Jonathan Kovacevic to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for a 2026 fourth-round pick, per
@reporterchris

Public analytics models show that Kovacevic is a solid, two-way defenseman who excelled in a 3rd pair role with the Habs last season.

Johnathan Kovacevic, acquired by NJ, is a puck-carrying two-way defenceman who's active in his own end and kills penalties. Has done solid work for MTL in a third pair role. #NJDevils

Opinions among Habs fans on this trade appear mixed. Some express dissatisfaction, pointing out that the pick they received in return may never reach the NHL level.

He's been easily the most consistent defensemen on the team these past two seasons.

Trading an NHL calibre defensemen for a pick that will probably never make the league is terrible.

However, fans noted that a player like Kovacevic can be relatively easy to replace in free agency. Viewed from this angle, the Canadiens are essentially acquiring a free 4th round pick for a player who wasn't expected to play a significant role in the team's future.

HUGHES W, He likely wouldn't even of made the team next year. We can replace him tomorrow in FA.

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JUIN 30 \| 193 ANSWERS Canadiens and New Jersey Devils complete trade involving Johnathan Kovacevic In your opinion, which team came out ahead in the Johnathan Kovacevic trade?
Montreal Canadiens	75	38.9 %
New Jersey Devils	118	61.1 %
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