Major development: A hidden reason for the return of Josh Anderson on the first trio and this may displease some fans

Obviously, Martin St-Louis is trying to find solutions to revive his team, which seems to be stagnant on the offensive end in the last few games.

The return of the number 17 on the first line is not unanimous, because Kirby Dach was undoubtedly the best complement for Caufield and Suzuki. This trio has been the main reason for the CH's success at the beginning of the season.

However, according to what Marc Dumont of Montreal Hockey Now implied, there would be a logical, hidden explanation behind the use of Josh Anderson. Indeed, according to Dumont, who is a former CH employee, the club would seek to boost Anderson's market value by using him with offensively skilled players.

He adds that the development of Kirby Dach at the center position would also have something to do with it, as the Tricolore's management would have the firm intention to play him at his natural position, in the long term.

This means that the stars seem to align so that Anderson is traded by the CH in the next few months.

Clearly, a departure of the latter could displease many fans who love the power forward. However, if the price is right , it could ultimately be very interesting to get rid of Anderson for several reasons.

Let's face it, the 28-year-old winger has yet to settle into the Habs' top-6. His inconsistency has many club officials, including Martin St-Louis, fuming. Anderson doesn't seem to fit well into the coach's system and with four more seasons left on his $5.5 million contract after this season, he doesn't seem to be part of the team's long-term plans.

Also, his history of injuries, combined with his physical style of play that is more injury prone, makes him a big risk factor for Kent Hughes. If the GM can get a very good price for him this year, which would also free up his hefty contract, it would be a great move for the Habs rebuild.

Credit: Keven Mawn, Fanadiens.com