Tue, Jun 27, 2023 at 2:20pm

NEWHOOK MOVED TO MONTREAL

The Montreal Canadiens acquired forward Alex Newhook from the Colorado Avalanche for defenseman Gianni Fairbrother, a first-round draft pick in 2023 (No. 31 overall) and a second-round draft pick in 2023 (No. 37 overall).

What does it give the Montreal Canadiens
This is a very good (and intriguing) trade for Montreal, because Newhook is a young NHL veteran with a lot more to give. The Canadiens will be patient with him and try to unleash his untapped upside. The Habs had plenty of picks, so they used two of them and a blueline prospect to land a promising talent.

What does it give the Colorado Avalanche
For the Avalanche, this trade is mostly about recuperating future assets while giving a younger player like Newhook a fresh start. Despite being part of the '22 Cup squad, Newhook never fully established himself in Denver. Colorado is in win-now mode, and clearly lost patience with Newhook.

Fantasy impact
Fantasy leaguers should not give up on Newhook. Some may have done so in keeper leagues, but it is time to draft him again. His value should only rise now that he has moved to Montreal. Fairbrother could also benefit from this trade, as the Avalanche are not nearly as deep in blueline prospects as Montreal. Keep an eye on Fairbrother.