Canadiens Acquire Sasha Pastujov from Ducks: A New Chapter for the Prospect
The Montreal Canadiens have made a notable move to bolster their prospect pool, acquiring winger Sasha Pastujov from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for forward Sean Farrell. The trade, announced on Monday, sends the 23-year-old Pastujov to Montreal after he spent his entire professional career with the Ducks’ organization. Pastujov, a third-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, has yet to make his NHL debut but has shown significant promise at the American Hockey League (AHL) level.
Pastujov completed his third pro season in 2025-26 with the AHL’s San Diego Gulls, setting career highs across the board. He recorded 21 goals, 36 assists, and 57 points in 71 games, marking his best production since turning professional in 2023-24. Over 160 career AHL games, all with San Diego, Pastujov has amassed 48 goals and 77 assists for 125 points. Despite this success, he remained an unsigned restricted free agent at the time of the trade, indicating that the Ducks did not see a clear path for him to the NHL roster.
For the Canadiens, Pastujov represents a low-risk, high-upside addition. While he is not expected to play a major role in the NHL immediately, he should be a considerable addition to the Laval Rocket’s lineup, Montreal’s AHL affiliate. His offensive production and experience could provide a boost to the Rocket’s forward group, and his development will be closely monitored by the Canadiens’ management. The trade also frees up cap space for Anaheim, as Farrell is a younger asset with a different skill set.
Overall, this move reflects Montreal’s strategy of acquiring young talent with potential, even if they have not yet broken into the NHL. Pastujov’s AHL track record suggests he has the tools to contribute at the highest level, and the Canadiens’ organization will aim to help him take that next step. Fans in Montreal will be eager to see if Pastujov can translate his AHL success into an NHL opportunity with his new team.
Shimanta Das 
