Sharks Eye Carey Price as Canadiens Trade Talks Heat Up

UPDATE: The San Jose Sharks are positioning themselves to potentially acquire Carey Price from the Montreal Canadiens, as trade discussions intensify. This development comes as Price, who has been sidelined since 2022, continues to collect his $5.5 million bonus, raising questions about his future in the NHL.

Price has been a fixture with the Canadiens for two decades, but with his lack of playtime and a hefty contract, the time for change may be imminent. Current reports indicate that the Sharks, currently holding 49 contracts, are one away from the league limit of 50, which complicates their pursuit of Price.

Nicolas Cloutier from TVA Sports has highlighted that Michael Misa could potentially be the 50th contract for San Jose. If Misa is signed, the Sharks would need to manage their roster carefully to accommodate Price’s contract. A trade involving Price could necessitate the inclusion of a minor league player or AHL prospect, as the Sharks must navigate their contract limits.

The stakes are high for both teams. If the Sharks secure Price, they may need to offer a prospect or pick not currently on the 50-man contract list. The Canadiens, with only 43 contracts, have more flexibility but must weigh the implications of trading their long-time goaltender.

Importantly, while acquiring Price could initially seem to favor the Canadiens, it would also benefit the Sharks by easing their salary cap burdens as they approach the trade deadline. This factor makes the situation critical, as it could allow the Sharks to liquidate salary more efficiently down the line.

With the clock ticking, both teams are under pressure to finalize details before the NHL season ramps up. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how this situation unfolds. The potential trade of a player with Price’s history and talent could reshape the competitive landscape of the league.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.