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Trade: Oilers get David Desharnais; Canadiens receive Brandon Davidson

Montreal Canadiens v New York Rangers

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 21: David Desharnais #51 of the Montreal Canadiens waits for the start of warm-ups prior to the game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on February 21, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

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There have been some interesting trades streaming lately, but the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens made one of the purest “hockey” trades, a “player for player” move rather than a straight buy-or-sell.

Canadiens receive: defenseman Brandon Davidson

Oilers receive: center David Desharnais (pictured)

ESPN’s Pierre LeBrun reports that Montreal has retained 20 percent of Desharnais’ salary in the deal.

Edmonton’s side is the easiest to understand. The Oilers have been far too dependent upon Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl for offense; perhaps Desharnais can give the team a big boost as far as scoring support goes.

Montreal, meanwhile, keeps loading up on defensemen. Almost to the extent where you wonder if there’s something that has to give.

The Oilers might have some more work to do before the deadline expires, too.