Who could the Canadiens target after missing out on Marchenko?
The Montreal Canadiens were among the teams linked to Kirill Marchenko before he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
With the Canadiens being in need of another top-six winger, let's look at two trade candidates who they could consider targeting.
Alex DeBrincat, Detroit Red Wings
If Alex DeBrincat does not have a contract extension done with the Detroit Red Wings closer to the trade deadline, the Canadiens would be very wise to target him. The 28-year-old would give the Canadiens another elite sniper to work with if acquired.
DeBrincat appeared in 82 games during this past season with the Red Wings, where he posted 41 goals and 85 points. With numbers like these, he would be a home run pickup for Montreal if brought in.
Jake DeBrusk, Vancouver Canucks
Jake DeBrusk may not produce the same kind of offense as Marchenko or DeBrincat, but he could still be a nice pickup for Montreal's forward group if acquired. The 2015 first-round pick has scored at least 23 goals in four of his last five seasons, so he would give Montreal more scoring if acquired.
DeBrusk would also be more than a rental if acquired, as he has a bargain $5.5 million cap hit through the 2030-31 season. With this and the Vancouver Canucks rebuilding, it could make sense for the Habs to pursue DeBrusk.
