Phillip Danault has been the subject of trade rumors as the Montreal Canadiens seek center depth. His past with the Canadiens and pivotal role in the team’s 2021 playoff run make him a familiar name among fans. However, questions arise regarding whether his return would be beneficial for the team.
Assessing Phillip Danault’s Current Performance
As of 2025, Danault remains known for his strong defensive skills. He contributes positively to his current team’s performance by maintaining a 54% expected goals share while on the ice. This statistic indicates that the Los Angeles Kings generate more scoring opportunities with him than they concede.
Faceoff and Special Teams Strength
- Danault wins 53% of all faceoffs.
- He achieves a remarkable 66% success rate in power play situations.
- His effectiveness in penalty killing is notable.
Despite these strengths, Danault struggles with offensive production, having only five points and no goals in 30 games this season. His expected goals per game stands at 0.17, translating to a projected total of approximately 14 goals over an entire season. While this number isn’t stellar, it is a respectable figure.
The Shift in Danault’s Role
One significant concern is his decline in rapid transition play. Currently, he has only four zone entry chances, ranking him 437th in the NHL. This puts him below even lower-tier players, raising doubts about his ability to serve as a reliable second-line center.
Potential Fit with the Canadiens
The Canadiens may view Danault as a short-term solution, possibly replacing Joe Veleno in the lineup. However, the imminent return of Kirby Dach complicates this scenario. Montreal is not in dire need of a player like Danault, as he does not meet the requirements for offensive support the team currently lacks.
The Long-Term Vision for Montreal
General Manager Kent Hughes emphasizes a long-term plan focused on building a sustainable winning club. Acquiring Danault, who has a contract worth $5.5 million until the end of next season, could tie up financial flexibility and hinder the development of younger players like Owen Beck. Additionally, this type of transaction represents a short-sighted approach that doesn’t align with Montreal’s goals.
The Big Picture
Ultimately, the Canadiens are not just one lower-tier player away from contending with top teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, or Carolina Hurricanes. Montreal’s strategy should center on patience and a clear long-term vision rather than immediate fixes that won’t yield significant results in the near future.
