Insider Reveals Canadiens 'Bigger' Deadline Wasn’t Actually Matthew Knies

Hughes was actively calling teams around the league to gauge interest in potentially trading young, high-end talent like Knies. It’s unclear who he called or which players he targeted, but he was aggressive in looking for an opportunity to swing big.

In other words, Montreal wasn’t targeting just one player—they were exploring several possibilities. LeBrun added that Canadiens executives were essentially asking rival teams the same question: Would you consider moving a young power forward or core piece?

As Hughes confirmed after the deadline, it appears Montreal may have come close to something significant. He hinted that he could revisit the idea in the offseason. His exact words were, he was “close to something bigger.” However, the insider believes that the potential deal likely involved a different team and player entirely—not Knies.

What Should We Expect This Summer?

LeBrun suggested that both teams involved have been careful to keep details quiet because the talks could be revisited during the offseason. For a Canadiens team still building toward long-term contention, expect Hughes to target players who fit his team’s timeline: young, locked in, and only entering their prime over the next four to six seasons. If the right opportunity arises this summer, Montreal may make another run at the kind of impact player who could fit well with their young, talented core.