What Could Armia Net Canadiens On The NHL Trade Market?

According to multiple NHL sources, Montreal Canadiens winger Joel Armia was a popular name on the NHL Trade Market heading into the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline but ultimately stayed put with the Canadiens. Well, it appears that Armia’s performance at the 2022 IIHF World Championships, that helped propel Finland to their second Gold Medal this year, has generated some trade buzz around the Canadiens winger.

“Decision makers noticed him from what I’m told and if the Habs wanted to try and move him again, there may not be a better time,” an NHL source told Montreal Hockey Now.

After two straight 14-point seasons – but also a solid showing with five goals and three assists in 21 2021 Stanley Cup Playoff games – it’s hard to gauge what Armia’s value on the NHL Trade market would be this offseason but his five goals and three assists (including a goal in the 4-3 overtime win to claim Gold over Canada) has seemingly created some NHL Trade buzz around the 28-year-old Canadiens winger. However, the $3.4 million cap hit Joel Armia carries for the next three seasons could mean the Canadiens do their trade partner a favor and take on a contract too.

“A pick is more realistic because of his contract,” the source said. “They might have to take back a smaller contract to make it work…then a pick with it. If it’s a team that has cap issues. Or else would be 2nd or 3rd rounder.”

If the they could do the latter in any deal for Armia on the NHL trade market, that would be a win right?

“I don’t know man, I think he can really be one of those bottom six guys you depend on,” another NHL source told MHN. “I mean I know the contract isn’t enticing, but if you’re one of those teams that’s missing those types of guys like he was in the playoffs last year, isn’t it worth it if you can afford it?”

Maybe it’s recency bias and Armia’s NHL trade value will lower as the NHL Draft and NHL free agency get closer, but at least for now, it seems that Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes may have some trade options for Armia.