Montreal, QC --- In an effort to bolster their blueline, the Montreal Canadiens traded for D Mattias Ekholm on Monday. Ekholm has proven to be a valuable two-way defenseman. 

 

Offensively, he hasn't been off the charts this season. He is a -3 and has posted 4 goals and 4 assists totaling 8 points through 23 games played. He has however, posted 3 powerplay and 3 game winning goals. Perhaps his greatest asset this season though has been defensively. He has blocked 40 shots and has 21 takeaways as well. 

 

"Ekholm brings a lot of skill with him here to Montreal. He's a great puck mover and can also clog the passing and shooting lanes, similar to a guy like fellow Swede Victor Hedman. We're excited to have him," stated GM Mike Cooley.

 

In return, the Canadiens send their 1st overall pick in 2021 along with prospects Alex Formenton and Trevor Janicke to Buffalo.