GOD! What an awful trade for montreal. You don't know how much value pitlick has. There is nothing that would separate a potential pitlick-pitlick-pitlick line. We wouldn't even do pitlick for McDavid 50% retained.

I'd do the Preds deal, but wouldn't give up a 1st unless you were able to talk to Forsberg before pulling the trigger for a "Sign and Trade" deal.. Otherwise not worth a 2/3 month rental giving up last years 1st round pick plus the Bedard draft 1st(yes, I know Top 10 protected, but still).. I like Ingram too, only issue is- Skinner, same age and same trajectory, so why give up assets to get what you already have?? And the Arizona deal would make 0 sense, yes you get Chychryn, but you're giving up Broberg-who is projected to be a similar player to what Chych is now, with less of an injury history(knock on wood hopefully it continues) AND giving away Holloway-who will likely be in the show come March, and a 1st this year- Frig even Eichel didn't fetch this things without conditions on them.. Plus one of the best Glue Guys whom also helps produce in Barrie, yes, I understand Bouchard is right there, but, if this past month has taught anyone anything, Bouchard is still not ready to handle first pairing mins and matchups, and since those 2 PPG's against Calgary the PP has gone ice cold while he's been the main PP QB.. Not saying they can't deal Barrie at some point, just don't think this year would be ideal, and you can likley get more value than a "throw in" for Cap Purposes....

What’s the rationale behind Montreal making that deal?

NSH counters with Forsberg for Bourgault, Kemp and EDM's 2023 1st (unprotected).

You've traded 2 first round picks, Broberg, Holloway, and Bourgault and DIDN't acquire a big shutdown RHD, power forward that will score 20+ goals, OR a bonafied #1 goalie??? Bro.... not good.

LOL, this is terrible for the future. Why would you mortgage the future so entirely for 1 shot at the Cup, while depending on Mike Smith to carry you there???