In a stunning turn of events, the Montreal Canadiens have officially traded legendary goaltender Carey Price to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenseman Ganon Lorac and a fifth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. This monumental deal marks the end of an era for Price, who has been a cornerstone of the Canadiens franchise for nearly two decades.
Price’s departure comes as a surprise to many, given his storied career and deep-rooted connection with Montreal. Over 712 games, he amassed an impressive record of 361 wins, 261 losses, and 79 overtime losses, maintaining a .917 save percentage and earning numerous accolades, including the Hart Memorial Trophy in 2015. His legacy is undeniable, having led the Canadiens to the playoffs multiple times and securing gold medals with Team Canada in international competitions.
The Canadiens’ decision to trade Price without retaining any salary and without a second-round pick as a sweetener raises eyebrows. San Jose will take on the full $10.5 million annual average value of Price’s contract, a significant financial commitment for a player who has struggled with injuries in recent years. In return, Montreal acquires Ganon Lorac, a 22-year-old right-handed defenseman with potential but limited playing time in the last three seasons. His performance has been inconsistent, raising questions about his readiness to contribute at the NHL level.
For the Sharks, the acquisition of Price provides a unique opportunity. They now have the flexibility to maneuver within the salary cap, potentially allowing them to trade other high-profile players while maintaining a competitive roster. With Price on their books, they can utilize his contract strategically, further enhancing their position in upcoming trades.
As the dust settles on this shocking trade, fans and analysts alike are left to ponder Price’s legacy in Montreal and the implications of this deal for both teams. Will Price ever play again, or does this mark the final chapter of his illustrious career? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the landscape of the NHL has shifted dramatically with this trade, leaving an indelible mark on the history of both franchises.
