The Montreal Canadiens are expected to move forward Jake Evans ahead of the March 7 trade deadline--but only if suitors across the NHL meet their valuation of the player. NHL insi

The Montreal Canadiens are in the thick of the playoff race as the NHL nears its return from the 4 Nations break. The Canadiens are within six points of the Detroit Red Wings for the final Wild Card spot in the East.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 7, several teams are expressing interest in Montreal Canadiens forwards Jake Evans and Joel Armia. According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, clubs have reached out regarding the availability of both players.

According to TSN insiders Pierre LeBrun and Darren Dreger, the Canadiens have received trade interest from the Winnipeg Jets, Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, and Minnesota Wild; all of them have inquired about the availability of one or both players.

Armia, who carries a $13,600,000 contract through the 2024-25 season, has 24 points in 59 games. Meanwhile, Evans is a 28-year-old center who has 11 goals and 27 points this season. Both players are set to hit free agency at the end of the season.

The Montreal Canadiens are on the outside of the Eastern Conference playoff race. Entering the season, many thought the Canadiens would be a bottom-feeder, thus making them a seller at the trade deadline.

The New Jersey Devils have been connected to Montreal Canadiens forward Jake Evans throughout this season. It is not particularly surprising that the Devils are interested in him, as they need help down the middle in their bottom six.

It's not the flashiest trade that Brad Treliving can make, but it's certainly one of the more cost-effective deals on the market.