In a recent article for Sportsnet [https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/11-realistic-predictions-for-the-nhl-off-season/], Rory Boylen made 11 bold predictions for the 2026 NHL off-season. The Montreal Canadiens were among the teams mentioned, as Boylen predicted that the Habs would trade prospect Alexander Zharovsky in a blockbuster trade to bring in a new top-six center. "The next step in the team's evolution is to find that player behind Nick Suzuki," Boylen wrote. "If the right player for the Habs' needs is there, Zharovsky is a highly interesting starting point in a return." When looking at the season Zharovsky just put together in the KHL with Salavat Yulaev Ufa, it would undoubtedly be risky for the Canadiens to trade the 19-year-old forward. In 59 games this season as a rookie with the KHL squad, he posted 16 goals, 26 assists, and 42 points. However, if the Canadiens want to bring in a star center, like Dylan Larkin or Nico Hischier, for example, it is certainly possible that they would need to include Zharovsky in a trade package for either player. Elite centers have incredibly high trade value, and this will only be more of the case this summer with there not being any notable pending UFA centers this year. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see if Boylen's prediction of the Canadiens trading Zharovsky in a blockbuster deal for a high-impact center comes to fruition.
