NHL Offseason: Montreal and Philadelphia Trade Talks: P.K. Subban

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By James Stephan (@J_Habs)

According to Bertrand Raymond of RDS the Philadelphia Flyers and the Montreal Canadiens have had trade talks revolving around young star P.K. Subban.

The talks reportedly took place shortly after Nashville had matched the Flyers’ offer sheet to Predators captain Shea Weber.

The Montreal Canadiens have hit somewhat of a lull with negotiating a new contract for Subban, and it’s been speculated ad nauseum that a team might submit an offer sheet to P.K. While this would pose a temporary threat to losing the explosive defender it is believed that the Montreal Canadiens would match it instantaneously. The Flyers are actively searching the market for a top pairing defenseman to fill the void left by Matt Carle who signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning this past offseason.

If Flyers’ defender Chris Pronger is unable to make a full recovery the need for a top pairing defender will be that much more vital.

While details are unknown, a likely target for Canadiens’ GM Marc Bergevin would be former Drummondville Voltigeur Sean Couturier. A mix of high-end skill with an impressive frame makes him the ideal target for the Canadiens, however it is doubtful that the Flyers part ways with the young star forward after his stellar rookie campaign.

The asking price for Subban is likely be too high for any team at this point, and barring an irresistible trade offer it is doubtful we see Subban sporting another team’s jersey.

Habs fans shouldn’t be too alarmed with the length of time it’s taken to sign P.K. as RFAs Tyler Ennis, Evander Kane, and Michael Del Zotto  are also searching for contracts. With the current CBA to expire in a few days, and the rate of young players signing contracts before the weekend, it wouldn’t surprise anyone if we saw Subban sign a deal before September 15^th, 2012.

Stay tuned on the developing scoop.