BREAKING: Montreal Canadiens’ $14 Million Defenseman on the Verge of Departure

The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly “evaluating the market” as they look to acquire a defenseman before the March trade deadline. One of their primary targets, according to David Pagnotta of *The Fourth Period*, is Montreal Canadiens defenseman David Savard. The Oilers are interested in acquiring the 34-year-old veteran, seeing him as a potential fit for their lineup at a reasonable price, especially given their struggles with penalty killing this season.

Savard, known for his physical play and defensive reliability, is in the final year of a four-year, $14 million contract with a $3.5 million cap hit, which could make him an attractive trade option for Montreal, especially as they risk losing him for nothing after the season. This season, Savard has registered four points in 18 games and played a key role in the Canadiens’ 3-0 win over Edmonton on Monday, finishing with a +1 rating in over 20 minutes of ice time.

The Oilers, currently last in the league on the penalty kill, are keen on adding a player like Savard to improve their defensive game. They could potentially use future draft picks, including their second- and third-round selections in the 2025 NHL Draft and a first-round pick in 2026, to facilitate a trade. However, they will need to move salary, as their available cap space is just $360,000. Despite having some financial flexibility, the Oilers are being strategic and cautious in their approach to any moves.