The Montreal Canadiens continue to keep their feelers out on a number of potential trade deals.
Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin has proven in the past that he's willing to pay in order to improve his team and is now maintaining an "open dialogue" with confirmed NHL trade deadline seller, Arizona Coyotes GM Don Maloney, according to a report from The Fourth Period.
"The Habs have expressed interest in Coyotes forward Antoine Vermette, two separate sources close to both organizations have confirmed to TFP.
"However, in addition to Vermette, the Canadiens are also reportedly eyeing Coyotes defensemen Keith Yandle, who shoots left."
Vermette has been the subject of innumerable rumors to this point. He's widely viewed as the first domino expected to fall in the NHL trade deadline market.
TSN's Eliotte Friedman said last week that he viewed Vermette as a "perfect fit" for the Canadiens, according to NicholsOnHockey.com.
Vermette, 32, is a gritty veteran presence who plays the full length of the ice and wins a high percentage of faceoffs. He's got 11 goals and 20 assists for the Coyotes this season.
At 6-foot-1, 198 pounds, the pending unrestricted free agent would add the size up front that Bergevin has long sought.
As for Yandle, he's got one more year left on his deal and would be a huge addition. This isn't the first time the two sides have discussed a deal for his services, according to TFP.
"The Canadiens have expressed interest in Yandle in the past, but trade talks never entered a serious stage, a source close to the Coyotes told TFP."
The 28-year-old has four goals and 30 assists in 50 games this year. He's a top-pairing defenseman and the upgrade would be significant.
A deal for either player won't be cheap though, as TFP notes the Coyotes are seeking "a top prospect and a high draft pick for Vermette" and "a young roster play, a prospect and a draft pick for Yandle."
