As you know, the Montreal Canadiens completed a trade with the Nashville Predators on Wednesday evening, a deal that notably involved Justin Barron.

On this topic, the well-known Pierre LeBrun added some context.

According to him, Kent Hughes and the Habs had been looking for defensive reinforcements for a while, ideally with experience.

“The Canadiens were looking for more experienced players on defense to play alongside their younger players.

They like Carrier’s character and his contract as well.

Barron was part of a multitude of young right-handed defensemen in the organization.”

Pierre LeBrun

It is therefore interesting to learn that Alexandre Carrier’s character and contract were two elements that tipped the scales.

 

A plan in place for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens

For his part, journalist Arpon Basu highlights an immediate need.

“The Canadiens had an immediate need, so they acquired Alexandre Carrier from the Predators to fill it since Justin Barron could not.”

Arpon Basu

 

It will be interesting to watch what happens next, especially since many unfortunately believe that acquiring Carrier sets the stage for another departure.

Based on everything being said right now by very reliable sources, I would be surprised to see Mike Matheson and David Savard finish the season in a Montreal Canadiens uniform.

In all likelihood, Alexandre Carrier and Logan Mailloux will be regulars (as right-handed defensemen) by the end of the season for Martin St-Louis’ squad, so the question remains which of Savard or Matheson will be traded.

Unless it’s both?

And if it were your decision, what would you do?