Kirby Dach's Uncertain Future: 5 Centers Montreal Could Target Before Next Season

With Kirby Dach ruled out for the remainder of the 2024-25 NHL season, the Montreal Canadiens need to seriously consider bringing in another center next season to slot behind Nick Suzuki. Over his three years in Montreal, Dach hasn’t been productive or available enough for the team to rely on him moving forward.

With the Canadiens showing significant improvement this season, the goal for next year should be to make the playoffs. Here are five options the Habs could pursue this summer, either through trade or free agency. At the end, I’ll rank my preferences for who I hope Montreal targets.

Sam Bennett, Florida Panthers (UFA July 1st)

Based on what we have seen over the last two months for the Canadiens, making the playoffs should be the expectation for the team going into the 2025-26 season. For a team looking to make it, Bennett could be an ideal fit to slide in behind Nick Suzuki. His postseason experience and strong, two-way play would provide Montreal the veteran leadership it needs. Bennett's addition would make sure the Habs have that second center without compromising future cap flexibility, as their young core is already signed on long-term deals. Although a $7–7.5 million annual contract could appear expensive, it's what Bennett would command on the open market.

Dylan Cozens, Buffalo Sabres (Via Trade)

Dylan Cozens has been linked to a number of teams in the trade market, including the Canadiens, and it makes sense. Even at the young age of 24, Cozens has already established himself as a top-six center with the size and skill to have an impact both ends of the ice. In addition to adding to Montreal's offensive depth, his addition would be a fantastic fit for their young core that will look to grow together for the foreseeable future.

Elias Pettersson, Vancouver Canucks (Via Trade)

As a Habs fan, I hope the Canadiens don't pursue this, but Elias Pettersson could be dealt this summer, if not earlier. The Canucks center will probably be leaving Vancouver if his awful play continues, as both sides could think it is time for a divorce. The only argument I can think of is for the Habs going after him is that believe he can get back to the level he was at a couple years ago, and they can get him at his all-time low value or they get the Canucks to retain a significant amount of money. If he can get back to the level we have seen from him in the past, the talent is undeniable, but his contract might be too much money for a team still building for long-term success.

Alexis Lafrenière, New York Rangers (Via Trade)

I know he’s not a center, but he does have experience playing down the middle at times. While this is the most unlikely option, it’s not impossible. If the Rangers miss the playoffs, they could make significant changes, and Alexis Lafrenière might be the most sought-after player they consider moving. Despite his ups and downs in New York, Lafrenière’s potential is undeniable. Given his age and skill, he’d be a great fit with Montreal’s young core—and maybe he could make the transition to center. Though he just signed, his contract makes him a valuable and manageable asset for any team looking to rebuild. While it's a long shot, Montreal should at least reach out to see if the Rangers are willing to move the former number-one overall pick.

Matt Duchene, Dallas Stars (UFA July 1st)

Over the past two years, Matt Duchene has revitalized his career in Dallas, showing that he still has a lot left. Even though he is getting older, the Canadiens could look to sign Duchene just to insure they have depth down the middle. Maybe a two- to three-year contract could work as it would provide Montreal's young centers with an experienced veteran in the locker room and on the ice. Signing Duchene could be a wise option for the Habs if they're looking for a quick fix to contend for the playoffs.

My Preference Ranking:

1. Alexis Lafrenière

2. Sam Bennett

3. Dylan Cozens

4. Matt Duchene

5. Elias Pettersson