Hockey Trade Rumour: Montreal Canadiens Eyeing Key Forward From Utah Hockey Club

Imagine Crouse bringing his gritty, physical style to Montreal's second or third line-it's easy to see how add depth and toughness up front, something they could use in their ongoing rebuild. The 27 year-old is also on the third season of his five year $4.3 million AAV contract and would fit into the Habs long term plans.

NHL insider David Pagnotta stirred the antenna's of Habs fans on TSN Montreal Radio 690.

But prying him away from Utah won't be easy. Their GM, Bill Armstrong, has been very protective of Crouse, seeing him as a key piece for years, dating back to their time together with the now debunked Arizona Coyotes.

Montreal GM Kent Hughes would likely need to part with a blue-chip defensive prospect and a first-rounder to get this deal done. That's a steep price, especially since the organization was in the middle of a carefully planned rebuild.

If Hughes and the front office make this move, it would show a big commitment to making them a more competitive right now. But knowing the GM, he's not rushing into anything. You've heard the saying patience is a virtue right?

If they do go all-in for Crouse, it'll be because the team sees him as the right piece at the right time, balancing their current needs with their future plans.