phillip danault canadiens

Phillip Danault Returns to the Canadiens: A Trade That Signals a New Chapter in Montreal

In a move that sent ripples through the NHL, the Montreal Canadiens have reacquired veteran center Phillip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a 2026 second-round draft pick. The trade, confirmed on December 19, 2025, marks Danault’s return to the team where he spent the most impactful years of his career—and it’s already sparking debates about the Canadiens’ rebuild strategy.

For fans in Canada, especially in Montreal, this isn’t just another trade. It’s a homecoming for a player who became a fan favorite during his first stint with the Habs (2018–2021). But with Danault struggling offensively in Los Angeles and the Canadiens giving up a valuable draft asset, the move raises questions: Is this a nostalgic gamble or a calculated step forward?

Let’s break down the trade, its context, and what it means for both teams.

The Trade: What Happened and Why It Matters

Verified Facts: The Deal

According to official reports from NHL.com and the LA Kings Insider, the trade details are clear:
- Montreal Canadiens receive: Phillip Danault (C), a 32-year-old veteran center.
- Los Angeles Kings receive: A 2026 second-round draft pick (originally from the Columbus Blue Jackets, acquired by Montreal in the Patrik Laine trade).

Danault, a two-way forward known for his defensive prowess and faceoff skills, had a rough season with the Kings—scoring zero goals and tallying just five assists in 30 games. Yet, the Canadiens, who’ve struggled at center depth, saw value in bringing him back.

Why This Trade Matters

1. A Rebuild Pivot: As Sportsnet.ca notes, this trade signals a shift in Montreal’s rebuild strategy. Instead of hoarding draft picks, the Habs are opting for experienced players to bridge the gap between their young core and contention.
2. Kings’ Cap Management: Los Angeles, already deep at center, likely saw Danault as expendable. Trading him frees up cap space and a roster spot for younger players.
3. Nostalgia vs. Strategy: For Montreal fans, Danault’s return evokes memories of his 2021 playoff run, where he outdueled Connor McDavid in the semifinals. But is this a sentimental move, or does it address a real need?

Recent Updates: The Timeline of the Trade

Here’s how the deal unfolded, based on verified sources:

• December 19, 2025 (Evening): The trade is announced simultaneously by the Canadiens and Kings. NHL.com and LA Kings Insider publish official statements, confirming the exchange of Danault for the draft pick.
• Same Night: Sportsnet.ca publishes an analysis piece, framing the trade as a “new phase” in Montreal’s rebuild. The report highlights Danault’s defensive reliability and leadership as key assets.
• December 20, 2025 (Morning): Media outlets (AP News, TSN, etc.) begin publishing trade grades, with mixed reactions. Some praise the Canadiens for adding a “clutch playoff performer,” while others question the cost of a second-round pick.
• December 20, 2025 (Afternoon): Danault speaks to reporters, expressing excitement about returning to Montreal. “It feels like coming home,” he says (unverified but widely reported).

Context: Danault’s First Stint in Montreal and the Kings’ Gamble

Danault’s Legacy with the Canadiens (2018–2021)

When Danault was acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks in 2018, he quickly became a cornerstone of Montreal’s forward group. Key highlights:
- 2019–20 Season: Scored 13 goals and 40 points, anchoring the second line.
- 2020–21 Season: Played a pivotal role in the Canadiens’ surprise Stanley Cup Final run, shutting down elite centers like McDavid.
- Leadership: Served as an alternate captain and mentored young players like Nick Suzuki.

His departure in 2021 (as a free agent to the Kings) was controversial, with many fans feeling the team undervalued him. Now, his return is seen as a chance for redemption—for both the player and the organization.

The Kings’ Perspective: A Short-Lived Experiment

Danault signed a six-year, $33 million deal with Los Angeles in 2021, but his production never matched his contract. By 2024–25, he’d become a bottom-six player, and the Kings—facing cap constraints—opted to move on. Trading him for a second-round pick is a modest return, but it aligns with their strategy of developing younger talent.

Immediate Effects: How This Trade Impacts Both Teams

For the Montreal Canadiens

1. Roster Flexibility: Danault’s arrival gives the Habs a proven third-line center, easing pressure on young players like Suzuki and Jake Evans.
2. Playoff Push: If Montreal is on the fringe of a playoff spot, Danault’s defensive reliability could be the difference in tight games.
3. Fan Engagement: Bringing back a beloved player boosts morale and ticket sales—a win for the business side of the team.

Potential Risks:
- Offensive Decline: Danault’s lack of production in L.A. raises concerns. If he doesn’t rebound, the Canadiens may regret giving up a high draft pick.
- Chemistry: Reintegrating a former player into a new-look locker room isn’t always smooth.

For the Los Angeles Kings

1. Cap Relief: Trading Danault frees up $5.5 million in cap space, which could be used for future moves.
2. Youth Movement: The Kings now have room to promote prospects like Alex Turcotte or Samuel Helenius.
3. Draft Capital: A second-round pick in 2026 is a solid return for a player who’s no longer in their long-term plans.

Potential Risks:
- Short-Term Depth: Losing Danault weakens their center depth, which could hurt in a tight playoff race.
- Fan Backlash: Some Kings fans may view this as giving up too soon on a player who was once seen as a key piece.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Danault and the Canadiens?

Short-Term (2025–26 Season)

• Danault’s Role: Expect him to slot in as the third-line center, playing heavy defensive minutes and mentoring younger players.
• Playoff Implications: If Montreal is in contention, Danault’s experience could be invaluable in the postseason.

Long-Term (2026 and Beyond)

• Contract Considerations: Danault has two years left on his deal ($5.5 million AAV). If he thrives, the Canadiens may try to extend him. If not, he could be a trade chip at the deadline.
• Draft Strategy: Giving up a second-round pick limits Montreal’s flexibility in 2026, a deep draft class. They’ll need their young players (e.g., Lane Hutson, David Reinbacher) to develop quickly.
• Kings’ Rebuild: Los Angeles now has more cap space and draft assets to accelerate their rebuild, potentially targeting a top-six winger in free agency or trades.

The Big Picture: A Test for Montreal’s Rebuild

As Sportsnet.ca