The Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens are heading in different directions early in the 2025-26 season. Boston has struggled to find consistency, losing seven of its last eight games. The team’s lack of depth scoring and defensive issues have raised questions about possible roster changes.
Montreal, on the other hand, has started strong with a 7-3-0 record. Led by Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, the Canadiens have shown solid teamwork and consistent progress. Still, one position remains uncertain – the second-line center role.
Could Pavel Zacha Be the Answer For Montreal’s 2C Role?
Boston forward Pavel Zacha has been mentioned in trade discussions as a possible fit for that role. The 28-year-old center is signed to a four-year, $19 million contract and has been one of Boston’s most reliable players this season. He has nine points in 11 games and plays in all situations, averaging about 18 minutes per night.
NHL insider Chris Johnston of “The Athletic” recently wrote that Zacha is the most likely of a few rumored players to be traded this season. However, he added that it’s unlikely Montreal will be the team to get him.
“The Canadiens and Boston Bruins aren’t generally in the business of doing each other any favors,” Johnston said.
He also noted that Montreal will stay open to exploring options as the trade market develops.
“My sense is the Habs will remain open-minded in their approach and make sure they’re involved in every important conversation once the NHL’s trade market finally gets moving. It’s no secret they’re looking to address a need at 2C, but they themselves don’t yet know who the answer will be,” Johnston added.
Zacha’s cap hit of $4.75 million runs through the 2026-27 season, making him a good value player for a top six forward. For now, Boston is not looking to trade him unless their playoff chances drop further. For Montreal, he is the type of player who could help, a steady, two-way center who fits well in their system. Even if a deal does not happen, Zacha’s name shows the kind of player the Canadiens want as they continue to build their lineup.
Friedman Suspects Canucks’ interest in Zacha
On Saturday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman spoke about the Canucks’ interest in Bruins center Zacha. He said Vancouver has liked Zacha since the offseason, before Filip Chytil’s injury. Friedman explained that Canucks and other teams have tried to see if they can get him.
“This has been kind of a dance with the Canucks and some other teams, seeing if they can pry Zacha out of there,” Friedaman said on Hockey Night in Canada.
Friedman also said he does not think Vancouver is on Zacha’s no-trade list. So, his reliable play and strong faceoff record make him a good option for the Canucks. Vancouver needs depth at center because of injuries to players like Chytil, Jonathan Lekkerimaki, and Nils Hoglander.
