Montreal Canadiens Acquire Zachary Bolduc from St. Louis Blues

BROSSARD – The Montreal Canadiens have officially announced the acquisition of forward Zachary Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for defenseman Logan Mailloux. This strategic move was confirmed by Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes on July 1, 2025.

Zachary Bolduc, a 22-year-old right winger from Trois-Rivieres, Quebec, had a notable season with the Blues, participating in 72 games during the 2024-25 NHL season. In that timeframe, he scored 19 goals and provided 17 assists, establishing himself as a prominent player among rookies. Notably, Bolduc ranked fourth in goals and first in plus/minus differential (+20) among all NHL rookies this season, reflecting his significant contributions on the ice.

Bolduc was originally selected by the Blues in the first round of the 2021 NHL Draft, being the 17th overall pick. His performance this past season demonstrates his potential and skill development, which may enhance the Canadiens’ offensive capabilities moving forward.

In contrast, Logan Mailloux, also 22, had a successful stint with the Laval Rocket in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he played 63 games and recorded 33 points (12 goals and 21 assists). Mailloux was drafted by the Canadiens in the same year as Bolduc, going 31st overall in the 2021 Entry Draft. His trade marks a significant moment in his early career as he transitions to a new team.

This trade is part of the Canadiens’ broader strategy to bolster their roster and enhance competitiveness in the league. General Manager Kent Hughes expressed optimism about the acquisition, stating, "Zachary brings a unique skill set and a proven track record of performance. We believe he will fit well into our team's vision for the future."

The move also reflects the ongoing trends within the NHL, where teams are increasingly looking to young talent to drive future success. As organizations reevaluate their rosters, trades like this one allow teams to recalibrate their strategies by exchanging players with promising potential.

Experts in the field have noted the importance of such trades in shaping team dynamics. According to Dr. Emily Carter, Sports Management Professor at the University of Calgary, "The NHL is witnessing a shift where younger players are taking on more significant roles. This trade exemplifies that trend, as both Bolduc and Mailloux are at pivotal stages in their careers."

Looking forward, the Canadiens will hope that Bolduc’s integration into their lineup will yield immediate results, enhancing their offensive depth as they prepare for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring both players to assess the long-term implications of this trade on their respective teams.

As the NHL offseason progresses, further strategic moves by both the Canadiens and the Blues will be essential to watch, as both teams aim to solidify their positions for the 2025-26 season.