In a stunning pre-Christmas move, the Montreal Canadiens have re-acquired fan favorite Philip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings, sending a 2026 second-round pick in return. This bold trade comes just before the roster freeze, signaling a strategic shift as the Habs seek to bolster their lineup amid injury woes.
Danault, a former key player for Montreal, brings a wealth of experience and a strong defensive presence. His return is expected to enhance the Canadiens’ performance, particularly in critical defensive situations. Despite a hefty cap hit of $5.5 million for this season and next, the Canadiens are banking on Danault’s veteran savvy to stabilize their roster during a challenging stretch.
The Canadiens currently face a roster crunch, sitting at 24 players when only 23 can be active. A corresponding move is likely necessary, with speculation surrounding the demotion of young players like Owen Beck or Jared Davidson. Danault’s addition provides immediate relief, especially with injuries sidelining key forwards like Alex Newhook and Patrick Laine.
While Danault’s offensive production has waned, his defensive metrics remain impressive. He consistently ranks well in faceoff percentage and has a proven track record on the penalty 𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁. His experience in high-pressure situations could prove invaluable as the Canadiens navigate the remainder of the season.
Critically, Danault’s acquisition raises questions about the Canadiens’ long-term cap strategy. With significant contracts tied to Brendan Gallagher and Josh Anderson, the Canadiens must carefully manage their payroll. The $5.5 million cap hit could complicate future moves, particularly as other injured players return to the lineup.
On the ice, Danault’s role will be pivotal. He is expected to slot into a third or fourth-line position, potentially reigniting chemistry with Brendan Gallagher. His ability to contribute defensively while providing leadership will be crucial as the team strives for consistency.
Moreover, the Canadiens may consider flipping Danault at the trade deadline if he underperforms or if the team is not in playoff contention. This trade could serve as a strategic pivot, allowing Montreal to recoup assets while still benefitting from Danault’s skills in the interim.
In summary, the Canadiens’ bold move to bring back Philip Danault is a calculated risk. While the cap implications are significant, his experience and defensive prowess are expected to provide immediate benefits. The coming weeks will reveal how this trade impacts the team’s dynamics and playoff aspirations.
