As per TSN’s Pierre LeBrun , after the Montreal Canadiens have told Jake Evans he’ll need to be flexible in terms of his ask if he wants to stay with the team beyond this season. So too, the New Jersey Devils are among the NHL teams who have contacted the Canadiens about a trade. The Devils have asked if GM Kent Hughes has a plan for Jake Evans. It sounds like things are very much still up in the air.

LeBrun reports that the Canadiens want to keep Evans, but they aren’t willing to match what he’ll likely get for offers in free agency. That leaves both sides with a tough decision.

LeBrun explains:

“You know Jake Evans is the big name among the pending UFAs. Evans is playing the best hockey in his career, and he’s also 28 years old, and this is his moment contract-wise.” The NHL insider adds that the forward is right at the peak of his career and might want to test the free agent market on July 1. He’s on Pace for 20 goals this season, shooting a career-best 28%. But the Canadiens have told Jake Evans they can’t and won’t be the team to give him his his home run deal.

LeBrun says, “There is going to have to be some some give and take for Jake Evans to remain a Montreal Canadien past this season.”

LeBrun adds, “They’ve only had very preliminary discussions, they haven’t really got into numbers yet.” But the message from the Habs to Evans has certainly been sent, as far as how they value him and want to keep him around.”

Canadiens Might Have No Choice but to Trade Evans

LeBrun added that if they can’t sign him, and term could be a hurdle in this negotiation, they might be forced to trade Evans. And there has been plenty of action in terms of interest in his availability.

LeBrun noted, “Let’s see where it goes, but the tough part will be this; because Jake Evans only makes 1.7 million, I know there are a lot of contenders that have circled his name and are waiting to see how Montreal plays that situation out.”

LeBrun reports that the New Jersey Devils have already kicked tires on Evans as the Devils look for a center. He adds, “So it’s going to be a tough decision for the Habs. I think they know how far they’re willing to go on an extension for him.”