Since joining the Montreal Canadiens, Mike Matheson has made a name for himself as one of the NHL’s premier offensive defensemen. After finishing last season with 62 points in 82 games, he has started the current season strong, securing three points in just four games. However, as the team undergoes a rebuilding phase, discussions about trading him have emerged, especially given his high value.
While talented prospects like Lane Hutson and Kaiden Guhle are on the horizon, now is not the time for them to take over. To stay competitive, the Canadiens need experienced players like Matheson to help secure wins.
According to a conversation between Mathias Brunet and Martin Lemay on BPM Sports, it’s likely that Matheson will exit as a free agent rather than through a trade. They believe his value to the team may be greater than what he would fetch on the trade market. “Mike Matheson is more likely to be lost as a free agent in 2026 than to be traded before then. The team needs him but won’t be able to retain him long-term!”
It will be up to Kent Hughes to determine whether a contract extension is feasible for the 2026-27 season. The progression of younger players may play a role in this decision, but for now, Matheson’s presence is vital. The dilemma remains: should they trade him, or commit to his long-term role?
At 30 years old, Matheson stands 6’2″ and weighs 196 pounds. The Quebec native is signed for $4.875 million annually until 2026, having been brought in from the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Jeff Petry deal in July 2022. Kent Hughes’ move to acquire him was shrewd, and it will be intriguing to see how he navigates this situation moving forward.
