Montreal Canadiens waive Sammy Blais - Patrik Laine return imminent? What is Kent Hughes planning?

Montreal Canadiens shake up their roster by waiving Sammy Blais just before the Olympic break—what’s behind Kent Hughes’ calculated timing, and could more moves be on the horizon? With Patrick Laine’s injury status in question and Alex Newhook eyeing a return, the Habs face a forward logjam that could force tough decisions for Hughes and Martin St. Louis.

Laura Saba and Ian Boisvert debate potential trades, speculate on Nazem Kadri’s fit in Montreal, and spotlight the ongoing struggle to balance veterans like Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson with emerging talent. The hosts break down defense pairings, strategize around playoff lineups, and name which NHL GMs Hughes should be calling daily to bolster the Canadiens’ chances. With Olympic buzz and off-ice intrigue, this episode sets the stage for a high-stakes stretch run in Montreal.

00:00 Canadiens waive Blais
06:04 Trade options and Newhook’s return
09:37 Kent Hughes' next moves
13:43 Trading Anderson or Gallagher challenges
17:52 Long-term value over cost
20:50 Canadiens' trade targets discussion
25:00 Logan Mailloux: defensive struggles
28:47 Exploiting desperate NHL GMs
31:06 Trivia: First Black Woman in Hockey Hall of Fame
32:44 Canadiens game tomorrow preview

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