If we take a quick look at PuckPedia's Perri Pick Value calculator, it’s clear MTL and CBJ could be great trade partners for this.
In 2025, MTL holds their own 2nd-round pick and PITT’s (currently projected around 40th and 49th overall) which roughly equals the value of a late first-rounder. (i.e. 2021 CAR 40th & 51st OA for 27th to NASH)
Meanwhile, CBJ owns MINN’s 2025 1st, projected around 20th overall.
If MTL adds CBJ’s 2026 2nd, the combined value comes close to that 20OA pick. (i.e. 2024 MTL 26th, 57th, & 198th for LA’s 21st)
Now, three 2nds for 20OA may seem steep to some (especially since MTL would be doing CBJ a favor). So, it’s fair to assume there might be a “favor premium” involved if we look at Hughes’ past deals. CBJ could sweeten the pot by swapping some later round picks positioning or throwing in a 5th or something else in there.
But at this stage of their rebuild, if I'm MTL I would be all over this. 3 picks in the top 20 could allow them to swing big in a separate trade (either up the draft, or for an established/young 2C.)
In 2025, MTL holds their own 2nd-round pick and PITT’s (currently projected around 40th and 49th overall) which roughly equals the value of a late first-rounder. (i.e. 2021 CAR 40th & 51st OA for 27th to NASH)
Meanwhile, CBJ owns MINN’s 2025 1st, projected around 20th overall.
If MTL adds CBJ’s 2026 2nd, the combined value comes close to that 20OA pick. (i.e. 2024 MTL 26th, 57th, & 198th for LA’s 21st)
Now, three 2nds for 20OA may seem steep to some (especially since MTL would be doing CBJ a favor). So, it’s fair to assume there might be a “favor premium” involved if we look at Hughes’ past deals. CBJ could sweeten the pot by swapping some later round picks positioning or throwing in a 5th or something else in there.
But at this stage of their rebuild, if I'm MTL I would be all over this. 3 picks in the top 20 could allow them to swing big in a separate trade (either up the draft, or for an established/young 2C.)