In a stunning move that has sent waves through the NHL, the Montreal Canadiens have traded their legendary goaltender Carey Price to the San Jose Sharks! The deal, struck on Friday, sees Price heading to California in exchange for 22-year-old defenseman Gannon Laroque and a fifth-round draft pick in 2026.

Price, who hasn't seen action in the NHL since April 29, 2022, has battled injuries, playing just five games in the 2021-22 season following surgery on a torn meniscus. He was placed on long-term injured reserve before the 2022-23 season and has been sidelined ever since.

With this trade, the Canadiens are freeing up crucial salary cap space. Just before the deal, they found themselves $5.9 million over the NHL's salary cap. Now, with Price’s significant $10.5 million cap hit off their books, they’re projected to have $4.56 million in cap space available to maneuver in this critical season.

Carey Price's impact on the Canadiens is undeniable. He devoted his entire 712-game NHL career to Montreal, posting an impressive .917 save percentage and a 2.51 goals-against average. A true superstar, in the 2014-15 season, Price made history as the first goalie to snag the Hart Trophy, Vezina Trophy, Ted Lindsay Award, and a share of the William M. Jennings Trophy all in one year. Moreover, he's the franchise leader with 361 wins, solidifying his legacy.

As the trade became reality, it was clear the Price family was bracing for this momentous change. Carey’s wife, Angela, acknowledged on social media earlier this week that while she holds strong feelings about the potential trade, the ultimate priority is for the team’s success.

In Laroque, the Canadiens gain a promising young defender who was picked in the fourth round of the 2021 Draft. Although still awaiting his NHL debut, Laroque brings hope and potential to a team looking to reshape its future.

The move marks the end of an era for one of hockey's most iconic netminders, but it also opens a new chapter for the Canadiens as they look to revitalize their roster and stay competitive in the league.