Marco Rossi traded to the Montreal Canadiens?

Indeed, according to what's circulating behind the scenes in the NHL, the young Austrian forward Marco Rossi may not be part of the long-term plans of the Minnesota Wild. This information surprised many, given that the 21-year-old was finally starting to take off this season with a tally of 20 goals and 17 assists (37 points) in 71 games.

There's no doubt he could instantly improve the Montreal attack by playing within the first two lines under Martin St-Louis. Of course, the Wild's general manager, Bill Guerin, might have very high demands for his former first-round pick, who was selected ninth overall in 2020.

The now 22-year-old center possesses exceptional qualities that make him a constant threat in offensive territory. His skating and agility are surely his primary assets, but he also has a keen game vision and a highly accurate shot.

Moreover, if some are hesitant to acquire him due to his small size (5 feet 9 inches), Marco Rossi has clearly demonstrated that he can play a robust style of game, not letting himself be intimidated since his arrival in the NHL.

Knowing that the Canadiens' general manager, Kent Hughes, wants to improve his attack by making a new trade à la Kirby Dach, the Wild's number 23 could represent a very attractive option for the organization.

DobberProspects scout Aaron Itovitch equally commented on the possibility of adding Rossi, who is one of the few Austrian players in the NHL. The Montreal Canadiens notably made history by selecting David Reinbacher fifth overall, the highest drafted Austrian in NHL history.

Furthermore, all signs point to the Montreal Canadiens possibly becoming an ideal dance partner for the Wild, as the American team absolutely needs to add NHL-caliber defensemen to its roster. The Bleu-Blanc-Rouge could therefore try to include a defenseman like Arber Xhekaj, Jayden Struble, or even Justin Barron in a package to acquire Marco Rossi.

Recall that the forward completely dominated the junior ranks during his time with the Ottawa 67's in the OHL. At only 18 years old at the time, the center amassed an incredible total of 39 goals and 81 assists (120 points) in 56 games during his draft year.