Canadiens Target Luke Schenn for Acquisition, Reports Renaud Lavoie
The Montreal Canadiens are currently facing notable challenges within their defensive lineup as they gear up for playoff contention. While their top five defensemen—Noah Dobson, Lane Hutson, Mike Matheson, Alexandre Carrier, and Kaiden Guhle—are performing solidly, the team is in need of a consistent sixth defenseman. The rotation involving Arber Xhekaj and Jayden Struble has not yielded the expected results.
Canadiens Target Luke Schenn for Acquisition
In light of these challenges, the Canadiens are reportedly eyeing Luke Schenn for potential acquisition, according to sports analyst Renaud Lavoie. Schenn, with his impressive defensive skills and extensive experience, presents a promising option to bolster Montreal’s defensive lineup. His capacity to handle significant ice time in critical match situations makes him an attractive candidate for the team.
Profile of Luke Schenn
- Player Name: Luke Schenn
- Age: 36
- Draft Position: 5th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2008
- Current Contract: Final year of a three-year deal worth $2.75 million annually with the Winnipeg Jets
- Stanley Cup Wins: Two championships (2019-2021) with the Tampa Bay Lightning
While Schenn is not known for scoring, his strength in neutralizing opponents is invaluable, particularly during the playoffs. Lavoie mentions that acquiring Schenn could be a sound financial maneuver, with an estimated asking price around a third-round draft pick.
Strategic Implications for the Canadiens
The Canadiens are acutely aware of their defensive shortcomings as they eye the postseason. Eric Engels has expressed doubts about the necessity of pursuing a sixth defenseman, but interest in Schenn could shift the team’s strategy. Effective defense is essential for success in the playoffs, where competition intensifies.
General Manager Kent Hughes will have a critical opportunity to assess Schenn’s performance during an upcoming game against the Canadiens. The outcomes of this evaluation, in conjunction with the impending trade deadline, will ultimately influence Montreal’s approach to enhancing their defensive capabilities.
