The Montreal Canadiens face a pivotal moment as they approach the trade deadline. With their playoff aspirations alive, sitting just one point out of a playoff spot, the temptation to retain veteran players is strong. However, the organization must prioritize future gains over short-term success. The Habs' decision to re-sign Jake Evans suggests a commitment to their competitive window, but the urgency of trading older assets like David Savard and Joel Armia should not be underestimated.

Both Savard and Armia, while valuable in the current season, represent opportunities to acquire future assets through trade. Holding onto them in hopes of a playoff push may lead to a loss of these assets to free agency without compensation. The Canadiens have already demonstrated resilience and growth in their young core, proving they can maintain competitiveness even in the absence of these veterans.

The Montreal Canadiens are firm in their stance regarding Jake Evans, making it clear to potential trade partners that they seek a substantial return, not just draft picks. Teams like the Winnipeg Jets, New Jersey Devils, Minnesota Wild, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Edmonton Oilers have inquired about Evans and fellow teammate Joel Armia. In particular, a return to Winnipeg for Armia is seen as plausible. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes are engaged in ongoing negotiations with Mikko Rantanen's camp, having made a franchise-record offer to retain the star forward. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Rantanen's future, the Hurricanes are prepared to keep him even if they face a rejection regarding his re-signing. They recognize the difficulty of acquiring a talent like Rantanen and are unwilling to part with him without a significant return that enhances their championship aspirations.

Nick Robertson's future with the Toronto Maple Leafs appears uncertain as he has been deemed available for trade ahead of the NHL deadline. Despite his scoring prowess, the team may look to move him rather than secure his long-term presence. Meanwhile, John Tavares, a key player for Toronto, is also in a precarious position regarding an extension. Talks have been ongoing, but no immediate agreement is on the horizon. The Leafs are prepared to let the situation develop further, allowing Tavares to remain without a contract beyond the deadline.

On the trade front, the Montreal Canadiens are reportedly considering the sale of Jake Evans and Joel Armia, with multiple teams expressing interest, including the Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets, and New Jersey Devils. The Jets' interest in Armia may pivot them toward adding depth rather than major pieces, showcasing a strategic approach as the trade deadline approaches.

The Montreal Canadiens are facing a critical decision on how to utilize their last salary retention slot. With players like Jake Allen and Jeff Petry still on the books, the team aims to maximize their return on potential trades involving Joel Armia, David Savard, and Christian Dvorak. There’s speculation around whether the Canadiens will retain salary for Armia's $3.4 million or Savard’s $3.5 million to entice suitors, especially given Dvorak’s $4.45 million cap hit as a UFA.

Dvorak, 29, has been suggested as a possible trade candidate, but his performance and financial considerations make it a delicate situation. Pagnotta believes Dvorak might remain with the Canadiens due to the balance of his production versus salary. Meanwhile, players like Armia and Savard could be more attractive to teams looking to bolster their rosters before the deadline.

The Washington Capitals are reportedly eyeing potential additions from the Montreal Canadiens ahead of the NHL trade deadline. With cap space available due to their LTIR pool, they may pursue players like Jake Evans and Joel Armia to bolster their depth. The Capitals have already made strides this season with the acquisition of Lars Eller but remain focused on further enhancements. ESPN analyst Dave Pagnotta suggests that the Capitals could add a mid-six caliber forward or a veteran defenseman to strengthen their chances in the playoffs.

Given their current standing as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, the Capitals have the resources to make strategic moves. Armia, with a $3.4 million cap hit, and Evans at $1.7 million could fit well within their financial framework, allowing for some flexibility for other deals. The Capitals' general manager, Brian McClellan, has been discreet in his dealings but is certainly exploring options to deepen the roster.