Quoting: Black61
Easy pass from mtl
I don't think its an easy pass, but its not like its a some sort of slam dunk deal for Montreal.
Assuming Montreal's pick isn't in the top 5 (which isn't a safe assumption given their recent play and strength of schedule), Smith might go before then or lower than the 6/7 range.
Organizationally, Montreal really likes Xhekaj and Evans (whether or not that is justified is open to debate). Obviously not to a never trade degree, but enough that they'd have to be really enamoured with the return.
And the truth is, outside of being Quebecois and being drafted by Gorton, Lafreniere isn't the cleanest fit. Montreal's trying to develop Slafkovsky in the same role and Laf's inability to stick on his off-wing (with MSL's tendency to play wingers on their off-wing) makes things challenging. Garand's stock is down given his AHL play and a mid to late 1st is good, but not great.
If the Canadiens aren't picking in the top-4/5 and really like Lafreniere, I can see them doing it. It fits the mold of the Dach deal. I wouldn't do it just because I don't think anybody can really handle the pressure of being Francophone star prospect playing in Montreal (I firmly believe that played a big role in Drouin's decline).