The Montreal Canadiens were on the brink of making some significant moves as the trade deadline approached. They were in talks to acquire a right-handed defenseman with term and were exploring options to move Patrik Laine. However, despite the groundwork being laid, the deals fell through at the last moment.
General Manager Kent Hughes hinted at a major deal that almost materialized, saying, “We spent a lot of time on one deal in particular, and it went down to the last minute, but it doesn’t prevent us from revisiting in the summer.” While there was speculation about Nazem Kadri, Hughes clarified that he wasn’t the main focus. The Canadiens were indeed close to moving Laine’s contract, but ultimately, it didn’t happen.
In other NHL news, the Toronto Maple Leafs were actively listening to offers for several players. Bobby McMann and Scott Laughton were seeking significant raises, which led to their eventual trade. McMann found a new home with the Seattle Kraken, while Laughton drew interest from the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Players like Max Domi, Simon Benoit, and Calle Jarnkrok didn’t attract much attention, while Oliver Ekman-Larsson was keen to stay put, despite thinking he might be traded. There was also some buzz around Matthew Knies, but sources suggest that talks may not resume in the offseason.
As the Maple Leafs look ahead, GM Brad Treliving is expected to stay, though a coaching change might be on the horizon. A key conversation with Auston Matthews about the team’s direction and his future is also on the agenda. Meanwhile, there’s a Western Conference team eyeing Morgan Rielly, indicating potential interest in the offseason.
The trade deadline may have passed, but the groundwork laid by the Canadiens and Maple Leafs suggests an intriguing summer ahead.