Blockbuster Trade Officially Looming Between Two Canadian Teams?

Several insiders, such as Eric Engels and Elliotte Friedman, have reported that the Oilers are highly interested in acquiring one of Montreal's goaltenders, seeking a reliable number two to back up Stuart Skinner.

In this context, a trade proposal was suggested by Edmonton journalist Liam Horrobin on the "Oilers Nation Everyday" podcast. He strongly believes that Oilers' GM Ken Holland should contact Kent Hughes to offer Jake Campbell, Ryan McLeod, and draft picks in exchange for Samuel Montembeault AND Sean Monahan.

Here is Liam Horrobin's trade proposal:

This proposal seems absurd! It's understandable why the Oilers would want such a trade, but it would be extremely detrimental to the Canadiens.

Jake Campbell is having a disastrous season, currently playing in the AHL. In seven games with the Bakersfield Condors, the 31-year-old veteran has a record of three wins and four losses, with a goals-against average of 3.28 and a save percentage of 0.893. Additionally, he has a salary of five million dollars annually until 2026-2027.

As for Ryan McLeod, although once seen as a promising prospect, he seems to struggle adapting to the NHL pace. The second-round pick from 2018 has only managed one goal and five assists (six points) in 22 games this season.

These two players seemingly have little to offer the Canadiens in their rebuilding process. It's almost insulting to Kent Hughes, who would undoubtedly refuse such a trade immediately.

Samuel Montembeault is playing excellent hockey, possibly his best season so far, with a goals-against average of 2.73 and a save percentage of 0.910. His new contract extension, worth 9.45 million dollars over the next three seasons, makes him a bargain for the organization.

Sean Monahan, despite a recent dip in offensive production, has seven goals and six assists (thirteen points) in 24 games this year. Additionally, he excels in defensive territory and on the penalty kill, making him a valuable asset for Martin St-Louis and the Canadiens.

The likelihood of such a trade happening is practically non-existent, and the reasons are quite clear.