The Montreal Canadiens have several avenues available to improve their roster ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season. One development drawing attention is reports that forward Kirby Dach has appeared in trade discussions as the club continues searching for a reliable second-line center.No trade is believed to be imminent, but the conversations suggest Montreal is open to different roster combinations if the right hockey deal comes along. This is not about moving players around for salary or cap relief. It’s about adding depth at center.
Why Montreal Canadiens discussed Kirby Dach during NHL trade talks
The Montreal Canadiens have been talking about Kirby Dach in NHL trade talks, with the organization focused on adding a bona-fide second-line center. Dach has apparently been discussed in talks between teams, but Montreal would only consider moving him if the return helps improve their down-the-middle lineup.
Kirby Dach’s recent performance remains a key consideration
The third overall pick in the 2019 draft, Dach was again injury-plagued during the 2025-26 campaign. He saw his role diminish in the Stanley Cup Playoffs after posting 15 points in 37 regular-season games. His skating is still one of his best assets, even with the offensive struggles, with tracking data ranking his top speed among the NHL’s best.
Contract situation gives Montreal Canadiens flexibility
The 25-year-old is a restricted free agent after the Montreal Canadiens made him a $4 million qualifying offer. The club has a lot of salary-cap room, so management isn’t under the gun to make a trade. Instead, the front office will be able to see if Dach has a place in the team’s long-term plans or more value as a trade chip.
Why a potential trade remains difficult to complete
The NHL marketplace right now isn’t filled with available second-line centers with established resumes, so the negotiations are difficult. Montreal needs immediate roster help, not draft picks or future assets. With that said, the Canadiens are expected to be patient and only look to make a deal that clearly improves the team.Kirby Dach’s future is going to be one of the biggest storylines for the Montreal Canadiens this offseason, whether it’s signing a new contract or being included in a larger trade package. The organization is still in the market for a reliable center behind Nick Suzuki with both short-term competitiveness and long-term roster planning in mind.
