Insider David Pagnotta hints at what Montreal Canadiens may do with $5,100,000 forward whose value 'continues to skyrocket financially' 

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the Montreal Canadiens may have a tough decision to make regarding forward Jake Evans, whose value continues to increase.

Evans is in the final year of a three-year, $5.1 million contract that carries an annual cap hit of $1.7 million. The center has seen his production increase significantly this season, scoring 23 points through 10 goals and 13 assists from 37 games. Five of those goals have come in the last six contests.

He only recorded seven goals and 21 assists in 82 games last season. With the trade deadline approaching, Pagnotta noted on "The Fourth Period" that Evans is among the Habs players drawing trade interest.

“Evans is an interesting one, because they would love to keep him, but his value continues to skyrocket financially, so they may have to juggle the decision of keeping him on a long term deal at decent money, or moving him out and getting a solid asset in return." Pagnotta said.

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The Canadiens are rebounding after a poor start, going 17-17-3 record and winning their last three games. With the team showing signs of progress, General Manager Kent Hughes could look to both buy and sell ahead of the March 7 trade deadline.

"They could do both, that would be the primary objective for Kent Hughes in the Montreal Canadiens, they have pieces that are available on the trade market." Pagnotta added.

Other trade interests are Joel Armia, Christian Dvorak and David Savard. All are on expiring contracts. However, Montreal would prefer to retain Evans given his upside and age.

David Pagnotta discusses Canadiens' asset acquisition

The Canadiens have acquired some good young assets over the last couple of years, like centers Alex Newhook (acquired 2023) and Kirby Dach (2022).

Pagnotta said Montreal may look to make similar moves, trading away veteran pieces to bring in more young, NHL-ready talent. This would allow Montreal to continue accumulating assets and build for the future.

“So they're going to look at both. They're going to look at moving out some pieces and collecting assets and potentially utilizing some of those assets to fill holes in other areas of their club for a long term edition." Pagnotta said.

With the trade deadline approaching, GM Kent Hughes has some big decisions to make.