When the Montreal Canadiens reacquired Phillip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings, it was a move that addressed a specific need rather than making headlines. With the Canadiens struggling with injuries and a lack of depth at the center position, the team needed a reliable player who could be trusted in various situations.

The Canadiens traded a 2026 second-round pick to the Kings for Danault, a price that reflected his age and defined role. The team wasn't looking for offensive upside but rather certainty and stability. Management wanted a player who could handle defensive zone draws, penalty killing, late-game leads, and matchups against top opposing lines.

Since returning to Montreal, Danault has recorded eight points in 20 games, averaging 15:54 of ice time per game. While his offensive production might not be the primary focus, his impact has been significant. Danault has been deployed as expected, providing a stabilizing presence throughout the lineup. His faceoff success rate of 57.8% since joining the team has been a major boost, making him one of Montreal's most reliable options on draws. This has had a tangible impact on puck possession and defensive structure, as the Canadiens have struggled in the faceoff circle at times.

Danault's return has coincided with a positive shift in the Canadiens' results. The team is now in the Top 3 of the Atlantic Division. In addition to Danault's contributions, other centers on the team, such as Oliver Kapanen, have also stepped up their performance. Kapanen had a strong January, recording six goals and four assists in 16 games, his best monthly stats of the season. The Canadiens' improved center position has led them to cool their interest in Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri, as they likely felt they got more value with Danault.

Danault's value lies in his ability to neutralize top opposing players and play heavy minutes in tough situations. During his previous stint with the Canadiens, he was a key part of the team because he was trusted in all defensive situations. He played against elite competition every night and was a major reason the Canadiens were able to roll balanced lines during its most competitive seasons. His familiarity with the organization and the expectations that come with wearing the Canadiens jersey is already well established. This trade signals that the Canadiens are prioritizing structure and responsibility.

Phillip Danault, born on February 24, 1993, brings a wealth of experience and a strong two-way game to the Canadiens. Over the years in Montreal, Danault saw heavy defensive zone usage and was often tasked with shutting down top competition. Despite that challenging role, the Canadiens generated the majority of the expected goal share with him on the ice over the past few seasons. During Montreal's playoff run to the Stanley Cup Final, the top-six trio of Danault, Brendan Gallagher, and Artturi Lehkonen pushed play forward with a 64.6 expected goal rate at even strength in tough minutes.