The Canadiens could use one Penguins trade target to lower the price on another

He could also give the Canadiens a negotiating weapon.

Reports have linked Montreal to Bryan Rust and Rakell, giving the Canadiens 2 options controlled by the same Pittsburgh seller.

That changes the trade math. Kent Hughes can ask Kyle Dubas for separate prices and force Pittsburgh to justify any gap.

Rust produced 65 points in 72 games. He gives Montreal the stronger scoring punch for a top-6 wing right now.

Rakell had 48 points in 60 games.

His production came in fewer games, keeping the trade comparison close for Kent Hughes.

The contracts are close enough to create real leverage: Rust carries a $5,125,000 cap hit, while Rakell sits at $5,000,000.

Both have 2 seasons left. That is the overlooked angle. Montreal should not decide which winger it prefers until Pittsburgh decides which player it is more motivated to move.

Offering 2 veterans with similar term weakens Pittsburgh's scarcity argument. Hughes can keep the return centred on expendable depth, not a premium prospect.

The Canadiens also retain an exit ramp. If the ask rises, they can walk away and preserve flexibility for a 2nd-line centre when a better opportunity appears.

Rakell becomes the better fit only if prices are nearly identical. His lower cap hit gives St-Louis a little more room without solving the larger centre question.

Rust becomes the better buy if Pittsburgh discounts him. His stronger scoring profile would add finishing power, but Montreal should not pay extra merely for it alone.

There is no reason for Hughes to negotiate against himself. The Penguins have placed 2 comparable solutions in the same aisle, and Montreal controls the pace.

A deal would make sense only if it preserves Montreal's best young assets and leaves room for another smart move down the middle later.

The hidden win is not choosing Rakell or Rust.

It is making Pittsburgh reveal which contract it wants gone more.

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