A "Shane Wright-style" Tactic for Casey DeSmith? Kent Hughes May Look to the Kraken for Canadiens' Strategy

Kent Hughes has said it: he absolutely wants to start the season within the payroll, while keeping Carey Price off the long-term injury list.

Currently, the Habs have about 4.7 million too much on their payroll, according to CapFriendly. If Hughes manages to trade DeSmith without adding a contract with the return, he'll then have 2.9 million to free up, which he can do by submitting the names of four youngsters to the Rocket, until the season starts.

If, however, the GM is unable to trade DeSmith, he could draw inspiration from the Kraken and the case of Shane Wright last year. Indeed, after a certain period without playing, a team can submit a player to the AHL without having to ballot him for 14 days.

This is what the Kraken did with Wright, who could theoretically play in the NHL or junior, but not in the AHL. It's a way of getting around the rules.

In other words, if DeSmith is still with the CH at the start of the campaign, Hughes could submit him directly to the Rocket, wait for the season to begin, place Carey Price on the LTIR and then recall DeSmith.

Clever and effective, but there's a downside. We know that the former Penguins goalie was expecting a baby when the Canadiens acquired him. His wife posted a touching message about the stress of not knowing which city to raise her child in just a few weeks before giving birth.

Knowing Kent Hughes and his very human side, he will do everything in his power to exchange it as soon as possible and minimize the negative impact on DeSmith's family. However, using this method would run counter to the DG's values.

To be continued...

Credit: Journal de Montréal

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