Report - Winnipeg Jets already discussing trade to send Pierre-Luc Dubois to Eastern Conference Team
There are just some rumors that will never die, and this rumor has been floating around the NHL for years. Since the day that it became clear that the Columbus Blue Jackets were going to trade Pierre-Luc Dubois, he was immediately connected to his hometown team, the Montreal Canadiens. The rumor has been so persistent for years now, where there is smoke there is usually a fire of some sort, at least that's what Canadiens fans are hoping.
There's been no confirmation from Dubois about his interest in playing for the Canadiens, however, Hockey Insiders believe: it's the likeliest scenario.
The Jets are currently in the battle for their playoff lives, hanging onto the final Wild Card position in the Western Conference with a four point lead on the Calgary Flames.
Winnipeg has been playing .500 hockey in their last ten games. Their most recent outing was a 4-1 loss against the Los Angeles Kings. In his fourth season as a Jets player, PLD is relied on heavily by head coach Rick Bowness. He has scored 25 goals and 58 points in 66 games played while averaging 18:24 in ice time.
Dubois signed a one-year extension last summer which pays him $6 million in annual average salary. He'll be a restricted-free agent with arbitration rights upon the conclusion of his contract.
It has been rumored forever that Dubois has interest in playing in his home province, and according to Friedman, the two teams have probably spoken about fast-tracking the process.
«They've talked about that, but haven't been able to make the deal,» explains Friedman.
It's a tough position for the Jets. It appears their star player doesn't want to be there and has his next destination in mind, limited the leverage the team can acquire. Canadiens' general manager Kent Hughes holds all the cards in this one. If the price becomes too significant, they can pull out of negotiations knowing they can get the player for free in one year.
| POLL | ||
If Pierre-Luc Dubois ends up in a Montreal Canadiens uniform, when does it happen? | ||
| Happens this summer | 42 | 47.7 % |
| Summer of 2024 as a UFA | 18 | 20.5 % |
| Resigns long-term in Winnipeg | 11 | 12.5 % |
| Moved this summer to another team | 17 | 19.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
