This team “is not a good fit for Duchene!” NHL insider reveals

The biggest issue in the Matt Duchene's saga is not only that Colorado Avalanche GM Joe Sakic's price is so steep, it is also that the term of the forward's contract is an obstacle for many interested team. 

Though Duchene is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2019, teams that look to trade for him might be afraid to lose him to the market as Duchene could refuse a long-term deal with the club that acquires him. 

Eight are reportedly in the mix to land Duchene and the Montreal Canadiens do have the cap space to acquire him. However, according to NHL insider Bob McKenzie, the match is not perfect between the forward and the Habs. 

"I don't think it's a fit," McKenzie explained on TSN 690 on Wednesday. "The Canadiens were on Duchene at some point, but they realize the level of the price is too high. The Avalanche is looking for defensemen. What do the Canadiens have to offer in return of Duchene? I don't see an obvious fit and that is part of the problem there."

If the trade had been made months ago, Habs GM Marc Bergevin could have offered young blue liner Mikhail Sergachev, who was later traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning in the deal for Jonathan Drouin. 

McKenzie also added that there is "no chance" the Ottawa Senators would give up Thomas Chabot in return for Duchene. But interest remains to land the 26-year-old forward. 

"The Sens are down a man for their top-9. Their need is offense and goal-scoring and that Duchene could help in that regard." 

The Columbus Blue Jackets and Carolina Hurricanes have also expressed interest in getting Duchene. But the saga seems far from over.