Insider explains why Canadiens got involved in blockbuster Karlsson trade

By now, you've heard the news that Erik Karlsson is a member of the Pittsburgh Penguins along with Dillon Hamaliuk and a 2026 third-round draft pick from the after being traded from the Sharks, as well as forward Rem Pitlick from the Canadiens. The full details of the trade are below: 

• Pittsburgh acquires defenseman Erik Karlsson, forward Rem Pitlick, forward Dillon Hamaliuk and San Jose's 2026 third-round draft pick.
• San Jose acquires Pittsburgh's 2024 first-round draft pick (top-10 protected), forward Mikael Granlund, defenseman Jan Rutta and forward Mike Hoffman.
• Montreal acquires Pittsburgh's 2025 second-round draft pick, defenseman Jeff Petry, goaltender Casey DeSmith and forward Nathan Legare.

But for those who are wondering why the Montreal Canadiens suddenly got involved in the trade, look no further. Eric Engels of Sportsnet breaks it down with specifics on DeSmith and Petry, who isn't likely to stay in Montreal for a second go-around for very long: 

How will each team fare after this major deal? 

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