The famous trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche has finally paid off more than expected.
It’s a trade that continues to stir discussion, particularly because several analysts consider it probably Kent Hughes’ only bad trade so far.
Let’s recall that in March 2022, Montreal sent Artturi Lehkonen to Colorado in exchange for Justin Barron and a 2024 second-round pick.
We know the rest.
Barron has had a lot of difficulties establishing himself as a regular NHL defenseman, accumulating 11 points in 32 games with the Laval Rocket in 2023-24.
Lehkonen, on the other hand, has become a true pillar for the Colorado Avalanche and a first-line player, recording 34 points in 45 games in 2023-24 (51 points in 64 games in 2022-23).
He also added 31 points in 37 playoff games.
In short, this trade might turn out better than expected for the Montreal Canadiens.
The Artturi Lehkonen trade, between the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche, allowed the acquisition of Michael Hage
Thanks to the second-round pick received in the Lehkonen trade, Hughes was able to acquire Michael Hage.
«The trade is technically Barron and Hage for Lehkonen… I’d do it again anytime.» – Trege Wilson, THW
Well, journalist Wilson omits to mention that Hughes had to add another pick, but he still raises another interesting point.
«We probably got Slaf and Demidov because they traded him. Keeping him here would not have been beneficial for both parties.»
It’s true that Lehkonen probably would have allowed the Habs to finish a bit higher in the standings.
So, it remains to be seen, but if Michael Hage ever becomes a dominant player in the National Hockey League, as many experts believe he can be, it will certainly «redeem» this trade made with the Colorado Avalanche.
In hindsight, what is your opinion of this trade?
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