A playful comment from Dan Milstein has added even more fuel to the growing speculation surrounding a Montreal Canadiens trade target.
The agent’s tongue-in-cheek response to a Canadiens fan quickly caught the attention of NHL fans, using cross-border politics and trade policy to make a clever reference to the potential movement of his client.
Montreal Canadiens Target’s Agent Takes a Jab at Donald Trump
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Kirill Marchenko finds himself squarely on the radar of the Canadiens.
Trade rumors surrounding Marchenko have picked up after reports suggested that the forward is unlikely to sign a contract extension with Columbus. The Canadiens have emerged as one of the teams linked to the 26-year-old forward as Montreal continues to search for more top-six scoring.
One Canadiens fan recently asked Milstein on social media whether Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell would call him after trading Marchenko to Montreal or simply send him a text.
Milstein responded with a playful message, saying, “Can’t confirm or deny, but last I checked there were some pretty steep tariffs on exporting elite talent to or from Canada right now.”
The comment was a clear tongue-in-cheek reference to the ongoing political discussion surrounding U.S.-Canada trade tariffs under President Donald Trump.
However, the message also had an obvious hockey angle.
By joking that there are “steep tariffs” on moving elite talent across the border, Milstein may have subtly suggested that acquiring Marchenko will not come cheaply.
Marchenko is currently on a $3.85 million annual average value contract and is coming off back-to-back seasons with more than 25 goals. Entering his prime, the forward could command a significant long-term contract if he is moved.
That means any team interested in acquiring him may have to pay twice: first in trade assets and then when it comes to a new contract.
Why Montreal Is Linked to Marchenko
The Canadiens have been looking to add more scoring depth around their young offensive core.
Marchenko’s combination of size, skill, and finishing ability makes him an appealing fit for Montreal’s top six. The forward could provide the kind of reliable goal-scoring presence the Canadiens need as they look to make another deep playoff run.
Milstein’s social media activity has also added intrigue to the situation.
The agent is known for using social media during major negotiations and has previously teased important developments involving his clients. His decision to directly engage with a Canadiens fan naturally fueled further speculation about a possible connection between Marchenko and Montreal.
Of course, Milstein did not confirm that Marchenko is headed to the Canadiens.
But with one carefully worded joke, the agent managed to keep the speculation alive while reminding potential suitors that acquiring his client could come with a significant price tag.
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Whether that price is paid in trade assets, salary-cap space, or both remains to be seen.
