I think Habs would want to hold onto Xhekaj imo

Habs believe in the Xhekaj brothers. I think, based on the fact that they picked Florian early, they are committed to find out how good the Xhekaj bros can be. The Habs would be more open to moving Struble or Harris in his place.

In any case I think if you want Savard, it should just be a simple swap of Savard for a 2nd round pick. Maybe since you don't have a 2nd, the Habs send back a pick with Savard for your 1st.

Savard with retention would cost a 1st.
Savard without retention probably nets a 2nd or 3rd, in which case they probably see his experience and value in showing the young guys the way probably outweighs the value of the pick and they respectfully decline.

As for Xhekaj, probably another 1st minimum. Think they are very reluctant to trade him as he is quite unique.

I think Savard is washed, want no part of him.

Based on the experiment I did with Rempe, Xhekaj isn’t going nowhere except for a massive overpay. This ain’t it