Is a Max Domi For Josh Anderson Trade Possible?

There continues to be a lot of chatter surrounding the Montreal Canadiens. A team that many believe could make some significant changes when the current season finally comes to a close, there were previous questions about what they might do on their blue line, some asking if they’d be interested in now-free agent Dustin Byfuglien.

Today, questions are being asked when it comes to the forwards, more specifically if the team has eyes set on Josh Anderson out of Columbus?

Eric Engels of Sportsnet, was asked that question in a recent mailbag segment and had an interesting response. While he didn’t think the Canadiens would actively try to pry Anderson out of the Blue Jackets organization, if Anderson was offered up in trade — there is some speculation he could be on the move — Engels believes the Canadiens should be compelled to take a look.

Engels notes Anderson’s size and speed and the way he plays and says this is something the Canadiens could certainly use. He also cautions that the forwards injury history and single goal this past season should be worth noting. But, if the team feels his injury issues are in the past, what would be the Blue Jackets asking price?

INJURY UPDATE: #CBJ right wing Josh Anderson underwent successful surgery to repair a posterior labral tear of his left shoulder today. He is expected to make a full recover in four to six months.https://t.co/FsTNMV0s5z

— CBJ Public Relations (@BlueJacketsPR) March 3, 2020

Engels writes:

I can’t speculate on what it will cost to acquire Anderson. I think it’s only logical some would suggest trading Max Domi for him straight up makes sense, but that’s a considerable gamble on Montreal’s behalf. And here’s what makes it an even bigger one, outside of just the health issue: if you make a move like that, you’re telling Anderson he’s your guy, and that essentially locks you into signing him to a long-term deal immediately.

Calling it a big move if it were an option, Engels wonders what bringing in Anderson and essentially locking yourself into an extension would mean for players like Domi (assuming he’s not part of the deal), Tomas Tatar, Brendan Gallagher, Phillip Danault, and Jeff Petry? All of these players need new deals at the end of next season.

So, this isn’t just about picking up a player who could be a 25-goal scorer. It’s about grabbing someone you believe could do so over multiple years, giving up a pretty good player to land him and hoping his injuries don’t come back to haunt him.

Sounds like a huge risk.

Related: Might Leafs Make Unexpected Trade Piece Available to Improve Blue Line?