The widely discussed trade involving Montreal Canadiens forward Jake Evans remains a hot topic, extending beyond just local chatter.
Earlier today, NHL insider Frank Seravalli, known for his extensive league sources, weighed in on the situation and even proposed a specific trade scenario between the Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Proposed Trade Between Montreal and Toronto
To Toronto:
- Jake Evans
To Montreal:
- Florida Panthers’ 2025 second-round pick
- Roni Hirvonen
Seravalli acknowledged that trades between the Canadiens and Maple Leafs are uncommon but pointed out a precedent—Montreal dealing Tomas Plekanec to Toronto at the 2018 trade deadline. From Montreal’s standpoint, maximizing value for Evans is crucial if an extension isn’t in the cards. He noted that the Canadiens had a mid-second-round pick on the table for Evans at last year’s draft. While Florida’s pick isn’t as strong, adding a prospect like Hirvonen, a 2020 second-round selection, could be an acceptable return.
With contract extension talks between Evans and the Canadiens seemingly at a standstill, the likelihood of a trade is increasing.
Seravalli also mentioned that Evans, a Toronto native, might be open to playing for his hometown team and signing a new deal there.
“He has played in three Stanley Cup Final games, so he won’t be overwhelmed by the moment. Plus, he’s a Toronto kid, so there is definite re-signing potential that makes this late second-round pick a worthy gamble.”
— Frank Seravalli
As for Hirvonen, the 23-year-old forward (5’10”, 178 lbs) was drafted by the Maple Leafs in the second round of 2020. He has tallied 28 points over the past two AHL seasons following a strong run in Finland’s top league.
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