The Montreal Canadiens have found themselves at the center of a swirling storm of speculation this morning, as reports emerge about a critical decision looming over veteran defenseman Mike Matheson. With the NHL trade market heating up and the Canadiens’ front office making bold moves, the future of one of their most reliable blue-liners now hangs in the balance.

The situation has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike, sparking heated debates about what’s best for the team’s long-term success and immediate competitiveness.

Insiders suggest that General Manager Kent Hughes has drawn a clear line in the sand, presenting Matheson with a stark choice that could dramatically alter the look of Montreal’s defense. This isn’t just another routine contract negotiation; it’s a pivotal moment that could signal a new direction for the franchise.

As rumors swirl and the hockey world waits for Matheson’s response, the Canadiens’ next steps could have major implications—not just for the player himself, but for the entire organization. With so much at stake and so many eyes watching, the coming days promise to be some of the most intriguing of the offseason.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We have some very interesting news this morning regarding the Montreal Canadiens and the NHL trade market.

All of it was published on our site.

The most recent development involves defenseman Mike Matheson, and the information comes from the well-known Frank Seravalli.

According to his report, Kent Hughes has reportedly made it very clear to the veteran defenseman.

The Canadiens have submitted an offer to Mike Matheson, possibly involving him in a trade

The offer made to Matheson is quite straightforward.

Just like with Jake Evans (seemingly), Matheson has two options:

– Either he re-signs with the Montreal Canadiens at a discount

– Or he will be traded!

That’s very interesting!

Frank Seravalli:

“Michael Matheson could be on the move, that’s another guy they’re looking at; you can be part of this group and re-sign and if it’s not at a reasonable number we’re moving you” – Kevin Karius Show

So Matheson has two options, one of which is being traded, and it seems the choice will be up to him.

Will he choose to re-sign at a discount with the Montreal Canadiens?

Will he opt for the trade route?

I imagine we’ll have an answer fairly soon, and we’re very eager to see how this unfolds.

Michael Matheson COULD be on the move, according to Seravalli.

“You re-sign with us at a discount, or we trade you.”

I wouldn’t be against re-signing Matheson at a good price to play on the third pairing. But if his trade value is high..

– MOB

And you, what would you do if you were in Kent Hughes’ shoes and running the Montreal Canadiens?

Mike Matheson, 31 years old, is a 6-foot-2, 196-pound left-shot defenseman.

A first-round pick by the Florida Panthers in 2012, he has recorded 265 points in 627 career NHL games, including an impressive 62 points in 82 games with the Montreal Canadiens in 2024.