Change is in the air for the Montreal Canadiens, and the spotlight is shining brighter than ever on one of their most crucial players. As rumors swirl and insiders drop hints, fans and analysts alike are left wondering about the next big move for the team—and it all centers around defenseman Mike Matheson. With his remarkable performance this season and growing influence on and off the ice, Matheson has quickly become a linchpin in the Canadiens’ strategy for both the present and the future.

But behind the scenes, something even bigger is brewing. Management has quietly shifted its priorities, and according to trusted sources, a major contract negotiation is on the horizon. The stakes are high: not only does Matheson want security, but the team must decide just how far they’re willing to go to keep him in Montreal for years to come. Journalists and fans are speculating about numbers, term lengths, and the impact this deal could have on the team’s trajectory.

What does this mean for the Canadiens’ future? How will Matheson’s demands shape the team’s plans? And could this be the defining moment that sets Montreal on a new path? The answers are more intriguing than you might expect.

Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson and GM Kent Hughes

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

The Montreal Canadiens aim to sign Mike Matheson to a long-term deal, a priority already highlighted by management according to Pierre LeBrun and NHL insiders.

Defenseman Mike Matheson is having an exceptional start to the season, and his value continues to rise within the Montreal Canadiens organization.

According to Pierre LeBrun on Insider Trading, the Matheson situation is now a priority for the Canadiens’ management.

LeBrun tells us today that the organization wishes to begin discussions for a long-term contract extension, while the player himself reportedly does not want a short-term deal.

“Pierre LeBrun: Re Mike Matheson: That’s going to be a big priority now for Montreal management, they want to extend [him]; [they] are interested in having that conversation; he does not want to sign a short term deal – Insider Trading”

This information quickly drew reactions from journalists in Montreal.

For example, Marc-Olivier Beaudoin wrote:

“So if the Canadiens want to sign Mike Matheson, it will have to be a long-term contract.

I wonder what his demands will be for a 6, 7, or 8-year contract.

I’m in favor of keeping Matheson but not at 8×8!”

– Marc-Olivier Beaudoin

Mike Matheson in the Long-Term Plans of the Montreal Canadiens

As Eric Engels of Sportsnet pointed out, Matheson has become indispensable to the Canadiens’ success.

He even quotes Cole Caufield, who made a point to emphasize his importance:

“Without him, who knows where we are?” asked Caufield.

“Mike has been incredible. He keeps things simple, calms the play, and makes everyone around him better.”

Nick Suzuki also adds:

“I think as he’s gotten older, he’s found a way to feel out the game more and not take as much risk,” the captain said. “Mike’s been so poised. Perhaps more so this season than I’ve seen before.”

At 32 years old, the defenseman from Pointe-Claire has never seemed more comfortable in his role as a leader and defensive stabilizer. Since the beginning of the season, he’s impressed as much with his consistency as with his impact on transitioning the play.

Matheson, who is currently in the final year of a contract worth $4.85 million per season, could therefore receive a major extension in the coming months.

Personally, it all depends on the price, but I think it would be a perfect decision to sign him. He represents exactly the kind of reliable veteran a young team like the Canadiens needs.

More details to follow.