canadiens Trade Carey Price to Sharks: A Deep Dive into the Move, Cap Implications, and Future Outlook
The Montreal Canadiens officially moved a franchise icon, goaltender Carey Price, to the San Jose Sharks on Friday, September 6, 2025, in exchange for defenseman Gannon Laroque and a 2026 fifth-round draft pick. This transaction marks a notable turning point for both organizations, carrying substantial implications for Montreal’s cap situation and future roster construction. Let’s break down everything you need to know about this pivotal trade.
The End of an Era in Montreal
For over 15 seasons, Carey Price represented the Canadiens, becoming one of the most beloved and decorated players in franchise history. However, persistent injury issues have regrettably curtailed his ability to perform at the elite level he once consistently reached.
Price hasn’t seen NHL game action since April 29, 2022. A torn meniscus in the summer of 2021 led to limited appearances in the 2021-22 season, and he’s remained on long-term injured reserve ever as. With this being the final year of his eight-year, $84 million contract, the timing became right for both parties to move forward.
Cap Relief for the Canadiens
The primary driver behind this trade was Montreal’s need to alleviate salary cap pressure. Before the deal, the Canadiens were $5.9 million over the NHL’s salary cap.
Price’s $10.5 million cap hit presented a significant obstacle to building a competitive roster. The recent payment of a $5.5 million signing bonus on September 1st facilitated the trade, making it easier to absorb his contract elsewhere. Now, PuckPedia projects the Canadiens have approximately $4.56 million in cap space available. This newfound flexibility allows General Manager Kent Hughes more options as he continues to reshape the team.
What the Canadiens Received in Return
Montreal acquired 22-year-old defenseman Gannon Laroque from the Sharks.Drafted by San Jose in the fourth round (103rd overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Laroque is a right-shot blueliner who has yet to make his NHL debut.
While still developing, laroque offers potential as a future depth defenseman. He provides the Canadiens with a young asset and adds to their organizational depth on the blue line. This trade isn’t about an immediate impact player; it’s about acquiring potential and creating future possibilities.
Carey Price’s Legacy in Montreal
it’s impossible to discuss this trade without acknowledging Price’s incredible contributions to the Canadiens. Throughout his 712-game NHL career - all spent in Montreal – he posted a remarkable .917 save percentage and a 2.51 goals-against average.
Here are just a few of his accolades:
Hart Trophy (2014-15): Awarded to the league’s most valuable player. Vezina Trophy (2014-15): Given to the league’s best goaltender. Ted Lindsay Award (2014-15): Awarded to the most outstanding player as voted by the NHL Players Association.
William M. Jennings Trophy (2014-15): Awarded to the goaltender(s) on the team with the fewest goals scored against.
* Canadiens All-Time Wins Leader: With 361 career wins, he holds the franchise record for a goaltender.
Price’s 2014-15 season was historic, making him the first goaltender to win all four major awards in a single season. He will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest Canadiens of all time.
Angela Price’s Outlook
The possibility of a trade had been circulating for some time, and even Price’s wife, angela, acknowledged the likelihood of this outcome. In a recent social media exchange, she indicated she “probably [feels] the same way most of Montreal would feel,” recognizing the team’s need to prioritize its future. Her candid response highlighted the understanding that sometimes, difficult decisions are necessary for the betterment
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