Kovalchuk already on his way out of Montreal?

There is a sense of panic in Montreal as the playoff window gets smaller and smaller for the Canadiens. Insiders are starting to wonder if general manager Marc Bergevin will have a fire sale ahead of the trade deadline. 

While it remains to be seen whether the Habs will be sellers or buyers at the trade deadline at the end of February, Jean-Francois Chaumont of Le Journal de Montreal categorizes star goalie Carey Price and captain Shea Weber as candidates if the Canadiens opt for a “complete reconstruction.”

On a more realistic speculation for a rebuild in Montreal, Chaumont lists forwards Tomas Tatar, Artturi Lehkonen, (soon-to-be RFA) Max Domi and defenseman Jeff Petry as possibilities if the team is seeking prospects and draft picks. All of these four players have been doing well this season and would command a lot on the market. 

Chaumont made the biggest point in the category of ‘No Time To Unpack’ when he revealed that both Ilya Kovalchuk and Marco Scandella could be potential trade candidates on Feb. 24. 

Kovalchuk could be good power play help for a contender willing to make an offer, while pending UFA Scandella could be dealt with the chance of the Habs approaching him to talk contract on July 1.

Kovalchuk celebrated his 900th NHL contest in Montreal last night, but could play for another team before he reaches his 930th game in the league…