Canadiens and Blackhawks swing a trade that sees former 1st round pick headed to Montreal

The Chicago Blackhawks and Montreal Canadiens have connected for another trade on Tuesday, this one also bringing in a former 1st round pick for Montreal. The Habs announced the trade on Wednesday morning, acquiring 2018 1st round pick (27th overall) Nicolas Beaudin in exchange for AHL/ECHLer Cameron Hillis.

Beaudin, standing at just 5'11 and 168 lbs, is by no means a big-body defender like what the Habs seem to covet. This could be an AHL add with the possibility of some potential NHL upside. Beaudin does have 22 games of NHL experience, but has played the vast majority of his professional career in the AHL.

The 23-year-old has recorded just 6 points in his 22 NHL games and hasn't produced exceptionally well at the AHL level either. He was, however, a point-per-game or better in his final two QMJHL seasons with the Drummondville Voltigeurs in 2017-18 and 2018-19.

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