The Montreal Canadiens and the Vancouver Canucks announce a trade as forward Tanner Pearson is dealt. This is a solid trade for the Canadiens as they pick up a versatile forward, with scoring touch. In trading Casey DeSmith, the Canadiens are gaining assets for a backup NHL goalie. The trade makes sense for both clubs as a way to shake things up. Also, it helps Vancouver as insulation to its goaltender situation. In addition, Montreal picks up a third-round pick.
Full trade, per sources:
To #Habs: Tanner Pearson, 2025 3rd Round Pick
To #Canucks: Casey DeSmithNo salary retained.@DailyFaceoff
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) September 19, 2023
The Montreal Canadiens Trade Casey DeSmith for Tanner Pearson
In Pearson, at 31, the Canadiens are adding a good all-around player. He is not as effective as he once was but can add some value to the lineup. Last season he only played 14 games, after sustaining a hand injury followed by complications. Before that, he twice scored 20 in an NHL campaign. He brings size and depth scoring to a lineup.
The Vancouver Canucks Pick Up Goalie Casey DeSmith
For the Canucks, DeSmith has decent enough backup numbers from a year ago. In 38 games in 2022-23 in the Pittsburgh Penguins net, DeSmith had a respectable .905 SV%. His record of 15-16-4 left a bit to be desired and maybe why the Penguins moved on. At 32 years old, this could be a chance for DeSmith to prove he has come into his own. With the later development of goaltenders, he may still have a couple years of NHL backup standards.
What Does This Mean for the Canadiens
This is a decent move for Montreal. They do not anticipate being in the hunt for the playoffs this year, and it is more of a development year. Therefore, there is no need to have a competent backup goalie pushing the competition. Alternatively, with Pearson, you are adding a former Stanley Cup winner. He can provide invaluable guidance and leadership to the young players. Players like Cole Caufield or Juraj Slafkovsky can learn about becoming a consummate professional from such an influence. Furthermore, he can contribute on the third or fourth line and fill in on the second power-play unit.
What Does This Mean for the Canucks
The Canucks were looking for a resurgence from Pearson after an injury season. However, he never produced much for the Canucks, so it is not like they will miss his offence. Conversely, in adding a worthy backup NHL like DeSmith it should help the young developing goalies. Someone like Spencer Martin can take his time growing. Thatcher Demko is a solid number one, so having a reliable backup can only be a positive. All-in-all a solid move for both clubs.
Main photo: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
