Should the Canadiens Trade Mike Matheson While His Value Is High?

As the 2025–26 NHL season approaches, the Montreal Canadiens face a pivotal decision regarding veteran defenseman Mike Matheson. With one year remaining on his contract and a $4.875 million cap hit, Matheson holds considerable value both on the ice and as a trade asset. The question is whether to retain him as a foundational piece or capitalize on his current market value.

Matheson’s Current Role

Since arriving in Montreal, Matheson has been a key figure on the blue line. He logged over 25 minutes per game last season and contributed in all situations, offering a dependable mix of skating, puck movement, and defensive positioning.

Canadiens executive vice president Jeff Gorton recently praised Matheson’s value in an interview with RG Media, stating:

“If you look at Mike’s body of work since he came to Montreal, he’s been a really good player… He might play upwards of 25 minutes a game sometimes. He’s been huge right now, and we all realize that. He’s a very good penalty killer; he plays against the best players every night, and there’s not much he doesn’t do. So, there are no decisions made on Mike right now.”

That kind of endorsement illustrates how central Matheson remains to the Canadiens’ current lineup.

The Case for a Trade

Despite his importance, there’s reason to believe Matheson could be a prime candidate to move. The Canadiens have significantly strengthened their defense with the addition of Noah Dobson and the emergence of prospects like Lane Hutson, Kaiden Guhle, and David Reinbacher. Montreal’s depth on the back end may soon outpace available ice time.

According to The Hockey Writers, “Matheson may be the most valuable, yet expendable, asset in the Canadiens’ cupboard.” With just one year left on his deal and free agency on the horizon, his trade value could be peaking. Contending teams could see him as a final piece for a playoff run.

Montreal’s forward group still lacks a true second-line center. Gorton acknowledged this, saying via RG Media, “We have centers in our organization, and we’re comfortable with that going into camp,” but he also added, “We’re going to still look and try to improve our team always.”

A deal involving Matheson could be the key to adding a forward who fills that need.

A Flexible Situation

What sets this apart from a typical trade scenario is that Montreal isn’t forced to act. The team has the luxury of patience. If no compelling offer arises, Matheson remains a valuable contributor and leader. His contract is manageable, and his presence helps bridge the transition as the club’s younger defensemen continue to grow.

The Canadiens are not dealing from desperation, and that strengthens their negotiating position.

Conclusion

If the Canadiens can secure a significant upgrade at forward—especially a second-line center—then moving Mike Matheson makes strategic sense. If not, retaining him through the season offers leadership, experience, and stability.

Montreal is in control of the situation. Whether they choose to trade or keep Matheson, the decision should reflect long-term planning, not short-term pressure. Either way, the Canadiens stand to benefit.