Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes Eyes Bold Moves Ahead of NHL Draft to Accelerate Rebuild…READ…MORE…

Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes Eyes Bold Moves Ahead of NHL Draft to Accelerate Rebuild…READ…MORE…

As the 2025 NHL Draft approaches, Montreal Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes is drawing increased attention around the league. After three seasons of strategic rebuilding and patient development, Hughes appears ready to shift gears and make bolder moves to push the storied franchise closer to playoff contention.

Speaking at a media availability last week, Hughes emphasized that the Canadiens are entering a “critical phase” of their rebuild. “We’ve accumulated key assets and built a strong foundation with our young core,” said Hughes. “Now, we need to be aggressive in identifying opportunities that can help us take the next step — not just in the long term, but in the immediate future.”

Since taking over in 2022, Hughes and Executive VP Jeff Gorton have focused heavily on developing young talent. The Canadiens’ pipeline is now considered one of the most promising in the NHL, with players like Lane Hutson, Owen Beck, and David Reinbacher complementing established young stars such as Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovský.

But with progress comes pressure, and Hughes acknowledges that fans in Montreal expect more than development—they want results. This year’s draft, where the Canadiens hold the fifth overall pick, could be a turning point. Multiple sources suggest Hughes is open to moving the pick for an NHL-ready player who can contribute immediately.

“There’s value in drafting high, of course,” Hughes noted. “But if there’s a player available who can help us win now and still be part of our long-term plan, we have to consider that very seriously.”

League insiders have speculated that Montreal could be in the mix for several high-profile trade targets, particularly young forwards with top-six potential. The Canadiens are also expected to be active in free agency, with cap flexibility allowing for short- or mid-term contracts that could help stabilize the roster.

Behind the scenes, Hughes is known for his calculated, collaborative approach, often consulting with the team’s player development staff and analytics department before making major decisions. But he has also shown a willingness to take risks, such as acquiring Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook in previous off-seasons—moves that have shown promise.

The Canadiens’ fan base, long accustomed to both glory and scrutiny, has responded with cautious optimism. “We’ve seen growth, but it’s time to compete,” said longtime Habs supporter Michel Tremblay. “If Hughes makes the right move at the draft or in free agency, we could be in for a real breakthrough.”

With just weeks remaining until the draft, all eyes are on Kent Hughes. Whether he opts to deal the team’s top pick, land a high-profile player, or double down on youth, one thing is clear: the Canadiens are shifting from a rebuilding team to one poised to contend—and Hughes is the architect at the center of it all.