With the NHL trade deadline approaching, the Winnipeg Jets are eyeing potential targets to strengthen their roster. Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders tops their list as a possible second-line center. However, Nelson's willingness to waive his no-trade clause for Winnipeg remains uncertain. If negotiations stall, Joel Armia could be a viable option as a versatile bottom-six forward capable of stepping into a top-six role.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers focus on bolstering their defense rather than seeking a goaltender. With their current performance faltering, they are cautious not to make impulsive trades that could hurt their long-term plans.

Several teams, including the Boston Bruins and Los Angeles Kings, are also looking for key additions, with the Bruins potentially parting ways with Brandon Carlo to acquire younger assets and draft picks. The Kings have expressed interest in acquiring offensive talent, notably Mikko Rantanen from Colorado. However, the market for Rickard Rakell remains high, potentially limiting the Penguins' willingness to trade him.

The Montreal Canadiens are strategically considering a 'hockey trade' to align with their long-term goals, with GM Kent Hughes indicating that Joel Armia and David Savard are not untouchable unless the right offer arises. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their pursuit of a center, highlighting interest in Brayden Schenn of the St. Louis Blues, with options such as Brock Nelson and Scott Laughton also on the table. The Leafs are contemplating trading young prospects including Easton Cowan, Fraser Minten, and Ben Danford for Schenn, but it remains uncertain if this would meet the Blues' expectations.

In the West, the Vancouver Canucks are weighing their options as potential buyers and sellers at the deadline, particularly regarding Brock Boeser, who is attracting market interest. The Canucks aim to assess their strategy with several players, including Mikko Rantanen and Rickard Rakell, while focusing on the long-term potential rather than immediate gains.

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 have made a bold move by extending center Jake Evans, highlighting their commitment to both present competitiveness and future potential. With the team just a point shy of a playoff spot, General Manager Kent Hughes chose to retain Evans, a crucial depth player, amidst ongoing trade interest. This decision comes on the heels of the injury to Kirby Dach, complicating the center depth for the Canadiens. Hughes, along with Jeff Gorton, communicated their intent to keep the team competitive this season, rejecting the temptation to trade a player pivotal in their recent five-game winning streak.

Evans, who signed a four-year, $11.4 million contract, may not be a top-six forward, but his role as a reliable depth player is critical for any playoff-bound team. Retaining him sends a strong message to the younger players about the direction of the franchise, ensuring they can learn and grow in a competitive environment. The Canadiens are betting on their young core while aiming to remain in the playoff race, believing that depth players like Evans can make a significant impact in the postseason.

Jake Evans has secured his future with the Montreal Canadiens, finalizing a four-year extension worth $2.85 million annually just ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline. Initially, it seemed that negotiations were stalled, yet a conversation between the team and Evans' camp turned the tide. This decision comes following Evans’ impactful performance this season, where he scored 12 goals and assisted 16 times in 61 games, including notable contributions while shorthanded.

With Kirby Dach sidelined due to injury, the Canadiens prioritized retaining Evans, recognizing his value as a depth center and penalty killer. This strategy reflects GM Kent Hughes' vision to build a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons, as the Canadiens aim for playoff contention.