The NHL rumor mill is churning, and this time, Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson finds himself at the center of the storm. NHL insider Frank Seravalli recently released his trade target board for the 2024-25 season, and Matheson’s name features prominently. Could a move be on the horizon for the veteran blueliner?
Matheson’s Potential and the Emerging Hutson Factor
Matheson has proven himself as a capable two-way defenseman with offensive upside. His strong skating ability and puck-moving skills make him an attractive asset for contending teams looking to bolster their defensive corps.
Adding fuel to the fire are the recent links between Matheson and teams like the Nashville Predators and New York Islanders. Both teams have needs on defense, and Matheson’s skillset could be a valuable addition.
Is Lane Hutson the Catalyst for a Trade?
However, the key factor driving these trade rumors is the emergence of young star Lane Hutson. Hutson, a 20-year-old offensive dynamo, has impressed with his poise and playmaking ability. This has led some to speculate that Matheson could become expendable as Hutson continues to develop.
While the Canadiens may be tempted to capitalize on Matheson’s trade value and give Hutson a larger role, General Manager Kent Hughes might be hesitant to rush the young defenseman into a top-pairing position this early in his career.
Contract Considerations and Potential Suitors
Matheson’s contract situation further complicates the matter. He is not a rental player, with one more year remaining on his deal at a reasonable $4.875 million cap hit. This makes him a more attractive long-term acquisition for potential suitors, but it also means the Canadiens are under no pressure to move him immediately.
If the right offer comes along, expect Hughes to pull the trigger on a trade. Teams looking for a puck-moving defenseman with playoff experience will likely be lining up to acquire Matheson’s services. However, Hughes will undoubtedly be seeking a significant return for a player of Matheson’s caliber.
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Matheson is a lifted skater and offensive defenseman but a poor defender, kind of like Shayne Gostisbehere, which will limit the return.