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Locked On Canadiens - Daily Podcast on the Montreal Canadiens

Habs TRADE Brendan Gallagher to Vancouver | Free Agency Preview: UFAs and Potential Extensions

Jun 30, 2026 · 37 min · Ep 1655

Montreal Canadiens part ways with heart-and-soul winger Brendan Gallagher, trading him to the Vancouver Canucks for future considerations and retaining 50% of his final contract year. Does this signal a shift in organizational culture, prioritizing player loyalty over short-term gains? Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba examine what Gallagher’s departure means for the Habs’ future, the locker room dynamic in Vancouver, and the emotional toll on Montreal fans losing one of their most beloved leaders.

The hosts break down why the Canadiens are focusing on building a winning environment and discuss key NHL Free Agency targets—or lack thereof—for Montreal. Deep dives include the fit of potential pickups like Claude Giroux, the wisdom of passing on right-shot defensemen like John Klingberg, and which Habs players deserve contract extensions next season. Don’t miss insider perspectives on the Canadiens’ off-season finances, extension priorities, and why Montreal is building for long-term success—one bold move at a time.

00:00 Brendan Gallagher's personal move

06:13 Honoring players like Gallagher

07:10 Favorite Brendan Gallagher moments

15:26 Focusing on forward positions

18:05 Considering Mason Marchment

20:06 Discussing Viktor Arvidsson's performance

26:04 Utilizing a player's speed

27:49 Start of Hutson contract talks

32:19 Discussing Jakub Dobes' contract timeline

34:44 Understanding future considerations in trades

Photo credit: Eric Bolte - Imagn Images

Check out Ian's blog on Brendan Gallagher and the guys who deserved more: https://gros-match-ce-soir.bearblog.dev/brendan-gallagher-deserved-more/

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