BREAKING: Montreal Canadiens sign player to replace Sean Monahan

We saw it in the Sean Monahan trade. One of the most coveted players in the NHL ahead of this year's deadline, ended up leaving the Canadiens for a first round pick and a third. What's considered to be the genius move here is that Hughes initially got a first round pick from the Flames to get Monahan and his contract.

Hughes also showed that he's among the most interesting GM to follow around the league with the Kirby Dach trade. He traded a player for a first round pick and ended up trading that pick for Dach. This was a very good move to do. Dach now has an important role within the organization. Even if he got injured at the first game of the season and will miss the whol season, he'll be a key player in Montreal for years to come.

Earlier today, the Canadiens announced a new contract signature to replace Monahan on their already thin centerline.

In a press conference following the Monahan trade, Hughes mentionned that they count on Alex Newhook to come back soon, and help the team compensate for Monahan's absence.

However, they also signed a player to make sure they have enough centermen.

Indeed, Hughes signed the forward Brandon Gignac to a two-year, two-way contract with the Canadiens.

Gignac played in Laval, the Habs' AHL affiliate team and he's been amazing this season so far. The 26 year-old scored 42 points in 43 games, including 14 goals.

More to come.

As seen on Markerzone - BREAKING: Canadiens Sign New Player Mid-Season to Replace Monahan