Vancouver Canucks Linked to Canadiens Star Defenseman Mike Matheson
Photo credit: Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers
A new report from Frank Seravalli linked the Canadiens star defenseman Mike Matheson to the Vancouver Canucks.
The Canadiens seem like they'll be sellers at the next trade deadline again this year.
Despite a few great games in the past week, the team is still in the last spot in the Atlantic Division with a 7-10-2 record.
Habs' General Manager Kent Hughes made it clear in the past that he wouldn't be willing to sacrifice assets to win now, making veterans clear trade targets in Montreal.
Especially at the blue line, where David Reinbacher and Logan Mailloux are both expected to join the Canadiens shortly, and Lane Hutson continues to develop into a superstar.
Both players are extremely valuable and could bring a significant return to the Canadiens.
Most people agree that it could be a mistake to trade either of them, as these two defensemen fill an important mentorship role for the young guys.
However, if a team makes an offer the Habs can't refuse, Hughes could decide to part ways with one of them.
In a new report from Frank Seravalli, we learned that the Vancouver Canucks could be interested in Matheson, but they'll need to make the right offer if they want to acquire him.
Here's what the insider said:
"Given the thin nature of their blueline, and their need to better support young defensemen assimilating into the lineup, the Canadiens don't really want to move Matheson.
But they may not have a choice given that his value will be arguably its highest before this deadline. Did you know Matheson was ninth among defensemen scoring last year with 62 points?
He moves the puck, is comfortable playing the right side, and actually defends better than he's given credit for when proper expectations are set.
What the Canadiens will have to weigh is: they don't really need many more picks, they need more tangible help."
But they may not have a choice given that his value will be arguably its highest before this deadline. Did you know Matheson was ninth among defensemen scoring last year with 62 points?
He moves the puck, is comfortable playing the right side, and actually defends better than he's given credit for when proper expectations are set.
What the Canadiens will have to weigh is: they don't really need many more picks, they need more tangible help."
Matheson, 30, has 13 points in 19 games this season, following a career-high 62-point season.
If the Habs don't want to keep him long-term, trading him away before the next deadline could be a tempting move. As Seravalli said, the defenseman's value is at its highest, and Hughes should capitalize on the opportunity.
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