NHL Trade Rumors: Carey Price contract expected to be moved in coming days, San Jose Sharks generating most buzz

The Montreal Canadiens are closing in on a major financial decision, as multiple reports indicate Carey Price’s contract could be traded within days. According to Marco D’Amico of RG, the move has gained momentum now that Montreal has paid Price’s $5.5 million signing bonus.

With the Canadiens currently projected to be $6 million over the salary cap, unloading the contract has become a pressing necessity.

San Jose Sharks emerge as frontrunner in Carey Price contract trade talks amid Montreal Canadiens salary cap crunch

Price, who has unofficially retired due to long-term injuries, has one year left on his deal carrying a $10.5 million cap hit but only $7.5 million in actual salary owed. Trading the contract would give the Canadiens immediate cap relief and allow them to avoid difficult roster gymnastics throughout the season.

Marco D’Amico reported that “the most amount of noise” has surrounded the San Jose Sharks as a potential trade partner. San Jose sits just $5 million over the salary cap floor, making them an ideal candidate to absorb Price’s deal. Acquiring his contract would give the Sharks insurance to move higher-priced players without the risk of dipping below the NHL’s mandated minimum.

Montreal Canadiens’ motivation and next steps in Carey Price contract trade and salary cap strategy

Beyond financial cleanup, Montreal has its eye on future roster flexibility.

Clearing Price’s contract would open space to pursue a top-six forward, either before the season begins or during the busier early trade period between U.S. Thanksgiving and the December roster freeze. While no forward move is imminent, league sources suggest the Canadiens are closely monitoring situations around the league that could lead to an upgrade.Other teams, such as the Chicago Blackhawks and Pittsburgh Penguins, have also been linked to Price’s contract.

However, San Jose’s positioning near the cap floor and roster situation makes them the most logical fit.The expectation across the NHL is clear: Carey Price’s contract will soon be moved, with the San Jose Sharks leading the discussion. For Montreal, the deal is less about the goaltender himself and more about gaining the cap flexibility required to strengthen the roster this season. As training camps approach, the Canadiens appear determined to put this chapter behind them and prepare for their next move.Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Insider notes growing worry about Connor McDavid’s Edmonton future amid contract delay