Canadiens and New Jersey Devils make trade involving Johnathan Kovacevic

NHL insider Frank Seravalli was the first to report that the 26-year-old Canadiens blueliner was on the move today. However, he could not provide the full details of the deal. Luckily, fellow insider Chris Johnston filled us in, reporting that he was moved to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for a 2026 4th round pick.

Public analytics models show that Kovacevic is a solid, two-way defenseman who excelled in a 3rd pair role with the Habs last season.

Habs fans seem to be mixed in their opinions on this deal. Several are not happy, citing the fact that the pick they get in return will likely never become an NHL player.

However, a player of Kovacevic's caliber is relatively easy to replace in free agency, as several fans pointed out. When you look at it from that perspective, the Canadiens are effectively getting a free 4th round pick for a [player who didn't figure to be a big part of the team going forward.