The Montreal Canadiens are grappling with salary cap challenges as they aim to finalize their roster for the upcoming season. Currently, they face a $5.42 million overage with only restricted free agent Jayden Struble left to sign. The Canadiens are hoping to avoid using Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) for Carey Price, whose contract, owed a $5.5 million bonus soon, could be a target for trade. Teams like the San Jose Sharks and Pittsburgh Penguins may be interested, particularly as they seek to bolster their rosters without exceeding their own cap limits.

The Penguins are also in a precarious situation, looking to shed contracts for younger talent. Rickard Rakell is a player who may be on the move, with potential suitors including the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Seattle Kraken. These teams are in need of forwards or defensemen to enhance their lineups. The Penguins face a steep price for Rakell, especially given the dwindling free-agent market, making trades a likely necessity for contentions.