League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Montreal Canadiens target centers Robert Thomas, Nico Hischier, Elias Pettersson

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 4:14 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Montreal Canadiens target centers Robert Thomas, Nico Hischier, Elias Pettersson

Summary

The Montreal Canadiens aim to strengthen their roster by acquiring a top-six center this summer. Key targets include Robert Thomas of the St. Louis Blues, who had 25 goals and 64 points last season, Nico Hischier of the New Jersey Devils, and Elias Pettersson of the Vancouver Canucks. Thomas offers a favorable contract, while Hischier, entering his contract's final season, could be available if extension talks falter. Pettersson, needing a fresh start, brings a strong offensive history but comes with a high cap hit. The Canadiens seek to build on a successful playoff campaign that reached the Eastern Conference Final.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Canadiens plan to add a top-six center this summer.
•Targets include Robert Thomas, Nico Hischier, and Elias Pettersson.
•Thomas had 25 goals and 64 points last season.
•Hischier may be available if contract talks stall.
•Pettersson has a history of strong offensive performance.

Latest Updates

4:14 PMYahoo Sports — 3 NHL top-six center targets for the Montreal Canadiens

What they're saying

"
The Montreal Canadiens lack one key element of their roster: a second-line center to play behind Nick Suzuki. Today, we take a look at three NHL top-six center options for the Habs.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Montreal Canadiens New Jersey Devils Philadelphia Flyers St. Louis Blues Toronto Maple Leafs Vancouver Canucks Detroit Red Wings NHL Hockey