Leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman David Savard created plenty of chatter as a trade candidate. Yet, even though Savard generated interest, the Montreal Canadiens elected to keep him for the season.
While the Canadiens did not move Savard this past season, the potential for a trade to occur this upcoming campaign exists. This is because the 33-year-old is entering the final season of his contract, and the Canadiens are still rebuilding. Thus, if the Canadiens end up being out of the playoff race once we get closer to the deadline and Savard is not extended, he would be a very valuable trade chip for the Original Six club.
Savard would undoubtedly generate plenty of interest if made available by the Canadiens in 2024-25. This is because he is a rugged right-shot defenseman who can handle top-four minutes and kill penalties. In addition, he is a former Stanley Cup champion, which naturally should only make him more of an appealing target to contenders.
Savard played in 60 games with the Canadiens this past season, posting six goals, 24 points, 69 hits, and 163 blocks.
Nevertheless, seeing if the Canadiens will move Savard this upcoming season will be intriguing. If the former Bolt is made available, don't be surprised if he becomes a hot commodity.
