Top Canadiens Deadline Target Scratched Ahead of Imminent Trade

The Los Angeles Kings made a decision that did not go unnoticed yesterday when they left the promising young Arthur Kaliyev out of the game lineup.

What's even more fascinating about this decision is the fact that his name has been circulating widely in trade rumors for the past few weeks.

Normally, when a player is in good form and is sidelined in this way, it suggests there's something more going on.

This decision is also very interesting for Canadiens fans, as the 22-year-old forward is a young player who attracts a lot of attention up to Montreal.

He still has significant offensive potential, but his talent is stifled with the Kings due to the deep lineup.

His departure has almost become a formality in the eyes of many experts and it could even happen by March 8th.

In 44 games this season, the 33rd pick of 2019 has totaled six goals and 14 points. It may seem small, but for a young player who plays barely 12 minutes per game on average and on a fourth line, it's very respectable.

A change of scenery could be highly beneficial for him, and Kaliyev has been linked to the Canadiens on numerous occasions.

Although it would take more from the Canadiens to complete a trade, remember that the Kings have shown serious interest in Jake Allen's services during the season. They have been looking for a goaltender for several months.

It will be interesting to monitor this situation in L.A.