Montreal Canadiens reportedly have a trade package for Kirill Marchenko
Photo credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The Montreal Canadiens appear ready to part with Kirby Dach if it means landing a bigger name, and insider Frank Seravalli says Columbus winger Kirill Marchenko is squarely on the radar.
Seravalli reported that Montreal's front office has grown restless with Dach's inconsistent path since acquiring him from Chicago, and the club is now exploring two directions: bringing in immediate help for the current roster, or flipping Dach as part of a package for a more impactful player. Marchenko, who has made his desire to leave Columbus known, fits that description perfectly.
After paying a significant price to acquire Dach and sticking with him through injuries, Montréal was seeking immediate roster help in return, or to use Dach as a chip to chase a bigger fish, like Columbus' Kirill Marchenko.
Interest beyond Montreal
The Canadiens aren't alone in circling Dach. Both the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames have reportedly kept tabs on his situation, with multiple clubs believed to have floated a second-round pick for the 24-year-old center back in June.
Montreal has held firm on a steeper asking price, but that stance could soften if a Marchenko deal starts to take shape.
Dach, a former third-overall pick, has battled injuries since arriving in Montreal but still carries name value and term that make him an appealing trade chip for rebuilding or retooling clubs.
Marchenko's crowded market
Marchenko isn't just drawing interest from Montreal. Reports indicate the Bruins, Islanders, Maple Leafs, Golden Knights and Kraken have all been mentioned as suitors for the 26-year-old winger, meaning any Habs offer will need to stand out.
With training camp underway and opening night approaching, the pressure is on Montreal to decide whether Dach fits their long-term plans or becomes the centerpiece of a splashier move.
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