Cayden Primeau was initially set to be the Montreal Canadiens’ backup for the remainder of the season, but his struggles led the front office to swap him with Jakub Dobes. Since then, Dobes has thrived with the Canadiens, while Primeau has found his form again in Laval. With his contract expiring after this season, Primeau is likely to move on in the offseason, making it logical for Montreal to explore trade options before the deadline.
While Primeau isn’t in a position to overtake Igor Shesterkin or veteran Jonathan Quick for the New York Rangers, there’s an argument to be made. Since returning to Laval, Primeau has played significantly better and has shown he can perform at the NHL level. Shesterkin has already dealt with injuries this season, and Quick has struggled compared to last year, posting a 3.11 goals-against average and a .897 save percentage in 16 appearances.
The Rangers have plenty of goaltending depth and could send Louis Domingue back to Laval to form a tandem with Connor Hughes in his home province. Meanwhile, Primeau could fill the same role in Hartford but provide the Rangers with an alternative if Quick continues to decline or if Shesterkin gets injured again.
If not the Rangers, Primeau could land elsewhere in the Metropolitan Division. With Shesterkin healthy, New York may not need him, but the New Jersey Devils are dealing with Jacob Markstrom’s absence. Nico Daws, who had promising performances last season, has struggled both in the NHL and AHL this year.
Given Markstrom’s injury history, the Devils should be concerned about their depth. They have Jake Allen as a backup, who has experience playing with Primeau in Montreal. Reuniting them could benefit both Primeau and the Devils, giving them a capable third option in case Markstrom’s issues persist.
Earlier this season, Daniil Tarasov seemed like a potential replacement for Primeau in Montreal. However, with Dobes emerging as a legitimate option, the Canadiens no longer need Tarasov. Meanwhile, the Columbus Blue Jackets still require a backup for Elvis Merzlikins, and Tarasov’s struggles have only worsened—he now has a 3.83 goals-against average and a .871 save percentage in 13 games.
Columbus has been a surprise team this season and could look to add defenseman David Savard as a trade deadline piece. Primeau could be included in a deal alongside Savard, giving the Blue Jackets a much-needed upgrade in goal.
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