HabsWorld.net -- 

The Canadiens made a move on their back end on Wednesday, dealing defenceman Jakub Jerabek to the Washington Capitals for a 2019 5th Round Draft Pick.

Jerabek was signed by the Canadiens this past summer after a successful season in the KHL.  He spent the early part of the season in Laval getting accustomed to the North American game and was called up in the late Fall.  With the Canadiens, Jerabek played in 25 games and registered a goal and 4 assists with a -1 rating.  He had been a healthy scratch since February 1.  It will be interesting to see if he earns more ice time on a contending Capitals team.

Jerabek is slated to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.  On some media sites, there was some speculation that the Canadiens may circle back to the rookie defenceman on July 1 and reports earlier this month suggested there was mutual interest in an extension.  Jerabek does have some puck-moving skills, something which is sorely lacking among the Habs’ back end this season.

Taking Jerabek’s place on Montreal’s roster is rookie blueliner Noah Juulsen, who was recalled following the trade.  There’s no word yet on whether he will be in the lineup to make his NHL debut on Thursday against the Rangers.