We just had another major transaction in the NHL, this time involving the highly promising young goaltender Yaroslav Askarov.

As we reported just minutes ago, Askarov has been traded to the San Jose Sharks.

The young goaltender’s name has been linked to the Montreal Canadiens several times over the past few days, but was Kent Hughes really in the mix?

According to the reputable Elliotte Friedman, the answer is yes!

Kent Hughes and the Habs were among the finalists to acquire Yaroslav Askarov, according to Elliotte Friedman

This is really interesting! Here’s his exact statement.

So, Kent Hughes was in the running!

Clearly, the Montreal Canadiens’ general manager is still ready to make moves, even after acquiring Patrik Laine.

Personally, I don’t believe this news is a discredit to the current Habs goaltenders.

I simply think Kent Hughes wanted to seize the opportunity to acquire a young talent that is very rarely available on the trade market.

A few years ago, experts were talking about Askarov as a generational talent.

With Samuel Montembeault, Yaroslav Askarov, Cayden Primeau, and eventually Jacob Fowler, the Montreal Canadiens would have been absolutely incredible and deep in goal.

Kudos to Kent Hughes for trying!

As for the price, well the Sharks traded:

David Edstrom (2023 first-round pick) + a 2025 first-round pick + young goaltender Magnus Chrona.

In exchange, San Jose received Yaroslav Askarov, Nolan Burke, and a 2025 third-round pick.

So, for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens, it would have cost something like:

Owen Beck + a 2025 first-round pick + a goaltender like Jakub Dobes.

Would you have done it?