Cayden Primeau has been traded from the Montreal Canadiens to the Carolina Hurricanes for a seventh-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. The 25-year-old goaltender had a mixed performance this season, posting a 2-3-1 record, a 4.70 goals-against average, and an .836 save percentage across 11 NHL games. In the AHL, he excelled with a 21-2-2 record, a 1.96 GAA, and a .927 save percentage, showcasing his potential. As a restricted free agent, Primeau received a qualifying offer from Montreal, indicating his value in the league.

The Montreal Canadiens have secured a seventh-round draft pick from the Carolina Hurricanes for Cayden Primeau's negotiating rights. Primeau, who played 11 games with the Canadiens in the 2024-25 season, posted a 2-3-1 record at the NHL level. His strong performance in the AHL, where he had a remarkable 21-2-2 record alongside a .927 save percentage and 1.96 GAA, reflects his potential as a reliable goaltender.

Drafted in the seventh round by the Canadiens in 2017, Primeau's transition to the NHL has garnered attention, especially considering his AHL success. This trade may signify Carolina's intent to bolster its goaltending prospects, while Montreal continues to reshape its roster.

The Montreal Canadiens are showing signs of improvement this season, despite setbacks such as Patrik Laine's injury and inconsistent performances from players like Kirby Dach, Alex Newhook, and Cayden Primeau. The team's management, led by GM Kent Hughes, is signaling a shift from a development-focused approach to one that emphasizes achieving results. A recent trade that brought in defenseman Alexandre Carrier in exchange for Justin Barron reflects this change, as it aims to stabilize the defensive lineup and allow younger players to focus on their natural positions.

On the offensive front, the Canadiens are evaluating their roster with three forwards on expiring contracts. Jake Evans is having a standout season, nearing his career-high in goals and points. His performance could lead to a contract extension rather than a trade, as he brings versatility and stability to the center position. With uncertainties surrounding other centers like Dach and Newhook, retaining Evans might be crucial for the team's future.

Evans has been particularly effective on the penalty kill, contributing significantly to the team's success in that area. While he may not be a top-line player, his reasonable contract expectations and loyalty to the franchise could make him a valuable asset moving forward. Hughes' strategy appears to prioritize maintaining key players like Evans to foster a competitive environment as the team continues its rebuild.

The Montreal Canadiens are enjoying their best stretch of the season, winning three consecutive games, including a decisive 5-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. Patrik Laine and several teammates contributed to the scoreline, showcasing a strong team effort.

Captain Nick Suzuki emphasized the team's resilience after falling behind early, while head coach Martin St. Louis praised the veterans for their leadership. The Canadiens prepare for an extended road trip, hoping to maintain their momentum despite the challenges ahead.

On December 21, the NHL features 11 games, with a focus on the Detroit Red Wings visiting the Montreal Canadiens and the Ottawa Senators facing the Vancouver Canucks. Both matchups promise excitement as the Red Wings look to avenge a recent loss and the Senators aim to continue their winning streak.

The Red Wings and Canadiens recently battled, with Montreal taking a close 4-3 victory. In the rematch, Detroit is favored to win, and there's a strong expectation for a high-scoring game.

Meanwhile, the Senators, riding a five-game winning streak, will challenge the Canucks, who have struggled recently. The recommendation is to back Ottawa on the Moneyline and consider the under for this matchup.