Canadiens, Blues Swap Bolduc and Mailloux in Trade

The Montreal Canadiens and St. Louis Blues completed a notable one-for-one trade, with forward Zack Bolduc, a 2021 first-round pick, going to Montreal and defenseman Logan Mailloux, also a 2021 first-rounder, heading to St. Louis. Bolduc, 22, had a breakout rookie season with 19 goals and 36 points in 72 games, helping to bolster Montreal's scoring depth after recent roster changes. Mailloux, 22, is a large, skilled, and polarizing right-shot defenseman whose development is closely watched due to questions about his hockey sense. The trade was enabled by positional surpluses on both teams, with Montreal deep on defense and St. Louis having extra wingers. Both are considered high-upside prospects: Bolduc is projected as a middle-six winger, while Mailloux could become a top-four defenseman. The move follows broader discussions between the clubs about larger deals and signals each team's intent to address specific needs for the upcoming NHL season.