The Montreal Canadiens have traded defenseman Joel Edmundson to the Washington Capitals in exchange for a 2024 third round pick, and a 2024 seventh round pick.
Washington Trades For Edmundson
NEWS | The Washington Capitals have acquired defenseman Joel Edmundson from the Montreal Canadiens for a third-round pick (originally acquired from Minnesota) and seventh-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Montreal will retain 50 percent of Edmundson’s contract.#ALLCAPS
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) July 1, 2023
In a surprising move, the Capitals look to add some reliable defensive help in Joel Edmundson.
They send away a third and seventh round pick, with Montreal retaining 50% of Edmundson’s contract.
Edmundson, 30, has put up 2 goals and 11 assists for 13 points in 61 games.
This move comes after drafting David Reinbacker 5th overall, the highest deafted Austrian in NHL history. either this is to slot him in, or so the Canadiens can bring in Lane Hutson, who put up 48 points in 39 games with Boston University.
Hearing Montreal and Washington talking Joel Edmundson
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 1, 2023
What This Means
Edmundson has been a bright spot on defense with a lowly canadiens roster. He was apart from the team recently after the loss of his father. He carries one more year with a $3.5 million cap hit, which with Montreal retaining 50%, would be roughly $1.75 million that washington would be committed to paying him.
Although this deal may be insignificant, it points to Washington wanting contend further while they still have Alex Ovechkin. it adds another level of depth on defense for Washington, and provides another steady defenseman they can rely on. Although, if things turn sour for them this gives montreal two high-value third andseventh round picks they can use in a deal.
