It looks like the Canadiens have placed veteran defenseman David Savard on the trade block, and an NHL insider has just linked the Edmonton Oilers as a destination. NHL insider Dave Pagnotta suggests that the Montreal Canadiens, deep into their rebuild, might not be actively shopping David Savard as of yet <a href='https://montrealhockeynow.com/2024/11/13/market-may-force-montreal-canadiens-to-rethink-trade-strategy/#google_vignette' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>but could entertain offers as the trade deadline in March draws nearer</a>. I think, I think yes. Short answer on the first part is yes. I think Ken Hughes and the Canadiens would certainly be willing to listen now on David Savard. I think they might want to push things off to try to maximize that return later on in the season. And I think you're going to see potentially Savard having that opportunity for the Canadiens anyway, having the opportunity to move him a little bit earlier, maybe a month to six weeks ahead of the deadline at the beginning of March, and he's certainly going to be a prime target. - David Pagnotta This certainly opens the door for teams like the Edmonton Oilers to potentially view Savard as that stabilizing presence they need on defense. The Canadiens GM Kent Hughes is likely to be patient, but the Oilers, with a narrow window to win now, may be tempted to pull the trigger sooner. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/AthlonSports/status/1857379788752654532'> </a></blockquote></div> Savard's profile certainly lines up with what Edmonton needs: an experienced, physically imposing defenseman who has won a Stanley Cup. At 34, he was a key contributor to Tampa Bay's 2021 championship run, its second in as many years, and provides sound defensive play without the flair. His $3.5 million cap hit is reasonable, making him an affordable rental option. While a first-round pick might be a too-steep asking price, the Canadiens, most likely out of playoff contention, can still work out a deal that satisfies both sides. For Edmonton GM Stan Bowman, picking up Savard could be the key to shoring up the blue line for a serious postseason push. As the season rounds the bend and the trade market really gets hot, Savard's name could be a focal point for teams like the Oilers who are looking to add the final pieces for a deep playoff run. Whether Habs GM Kent Hughes holds firm or strikes a deal remains to be seen, but Savard's value as a reliable veteran will make him a name to watch as the deadline nears.