The Montreal Canadiens made a strategic move by moving up in the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26, raising eyebrows. They used a trade to obtain forward Gleb Pugachyov at 26th overall, a skilled forward, enhancing their roster. That spot emerged two picks ahead of where Montreal originally stood at 28th.
They furthermore made a big push for defenseman Artem Marchenko, an experienced defender. Reports labeled the offer massive, indicating a push.
If this trade goes through, Montreal secures an older, bigger defenseman to help its blue line, bolstering the unit.