Is a Joel Edmundson Trade Imminent?

While the decision was easier originally for when Edmundson returned, with three rookie defensemen in the lineup, it doesn't seem so simple now to make a choice on which defenseman to sacrifice when number 44 returns to the lineup.

Kaiden Guhle's level of play makes him impossible to squeeze out of the defensive lineup. Even though he has only five games under his belt, he has become indispensable to Martin St. Louis.

In the case of Jordan Harris, even though his performance is in the shadow of Guhle, the 22-year-old defenseman does a colossal job of containing the opponent's attacks. His defensive play is top-notch and he deserves to keep his position as a regular.

As for Arber Xhekaj, it's hard to tamp down this behemoth of a player. The 21-year-old has become the new darling of the fans and his play on the ice is improving with each game. In addition to providing a physical presence and insurance policy for the team's younger players, Xhekaj has great skills to get the team's offense going.

Even Kent Hughes' waiver claim, Johnathan Kovacevic, has been a great player so far this season. Also, being a right-handed defenseman, his presence makes him even more useful.

Knowing that several teams have expressed interest in acquiring the Canadiens' assistant captain, it would be very plausible that attractive offers could come for Edmundson when he is healthy again. He could become an attractive option at the trade deadline.

A Ben Chiarot style trade would be a coup if Kent Hughes agrees to let him go.