Canadiens could turn to $4.4 million, 22-goal center as they look for another answer down the middle

The Montreal Canadiens may have another center option worth exploring before the season begins. Ken MacMillan of The Hockey Writers recently identified the Calgary Flames as a potential trade partner for Montreal and pointed to Morgan Frost as a fit. The 27-year-old is coming off his best NHL season, scoring 22 goals and 43 points in 82 games while winning nearly 57% of his faceoffs. With Frost entering the final year of a $4.375 million contract, Montreal could add an experienced middle-six center without making the kind of major investment that comes with a bigger name.

Why could Morgan Frost make sense for the Canadiens?

Frost checks several boxes for Montreal. The Canadiens already have a clear top option down the middle, but adding another proven center would give the lineup more depth and flexibility. That need has remained part of Montreal’s offseason discussion.

The Hockey News examined a potential Montreal-Calgary trade in July and highlighted the Canadiens’ need at center. The outlet returned to Frost on Aug. 12, describing him as an “intriguing” option and a possible middle-six addition.

His production makes the idea more appealing. Frost’s 22 goals last season were a career high, while his 43 points showed he can provide useful secondary offense. He also played all 82 games, giving Montreal another center with a full season of NHL experience.

The financial side could matter just as much. Calgary signed Frost to a two-year, $8.75 million contract in July 2025. His $4.375 million cap hit is manageable, and Montreal would be taking on only one guaranteed season. That gives Kent Hughes an important escape route if Frost does not prove to be a long-term answer.

Would Calgary actually trade Frost to Montreal?

There are signs the Flames could at least listen.

The Hockey News reported on July 18 that NHL insider David Pagnotta said teams were still checking in with Calgary, with Frost among the players drawing interest.

“Morgan Frost’s name still out there,” Pagnotta said.

Daily Faceoff’s Anthony Di Marco had also reported earlier in the offseason that Calgary was willing to listen on most of its roster as the organization moved toward a rebuild. Di Marco specifically viewed Frost as an appealing trade chip because reliable centers remain valuable around the league.

Calgary acquired Frost from the Philadelphia Flyers in January 2025 as part of a four-player deal. His breakout season since then only increases his trade value. The Flames have little reason to move him cheaply, especially with teams looking for help at center.

For Montreal, the bigger question is the price. The Canadiens have enough prospects and draft capital to explore a deal without touching the young core that helped them reach the playoffs last season. But Hughes must decide whether Frost is worth spending those assets on, particularly with his contract expiring after the coming season.
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