Mike Matheson has emerged as a highly valuable trade asset for the Montreal Canadiens, particularly after the acquisition of Noah Dobson. With the Canadiens' defensive lineup becoming increasingly crowded, Matheson, a veteran defenseman, could be the piece that helps Montreal address other needs.

Matheson, 31, is a left-handed defenseman who has proven his worth on the ice. In the past two seasons with Montreal, he has averaged over 25 minutes of ice time per game, showcasing his reliability and importance to the team. While his offensive output dipped slightly this past year to 31 points in 80 games, he had previously recorded a career-high 62 points in 82 games, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. He is known for his mobility and ability to carry the puck out of the defensive zone. These qualities make him an attractive asset for teams looking to bolster their blue line.

Several factors contribute to Matheson's trade value. He is on a reasonable contract, earning just under $5 million per year through the summer of 2026. This manageable cap hit makes him an attractive option for teams seeking to add a quality defenseman without breaking the bank. Furthermore, his offensive capabilities for a defenseman make him all the more valuable, especially considering that defensemen who produce more than Matheson typically earn twice his salary.

One team reportedly showing interest in Matheson is the Edmonton Oilers, who are looking to improve their defense. The Oilers value Matheson's mobility and puck-moving skills, believing he would complement their high-powered offense led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. While the Oilers already have mobile, puck-carrying defensemen like Evan Bouchard and Jake Walman, Matheson's ability to play both sides and his extensive ice time make him a desirable addition.

Potential trade scenarios involving Matheson could allow the Canadiens to address their need for center depth or acquire other assets to strengthen their roster. With Dobson's arrival and subsequent long-term contract, the Canadiens' salary cap situation has become more complex. Moving Matheson's contract would provide Montreal with increased financial flexibility to maneuver in the coming seasons.

While trading Matheson might seem like a difficult decision, it could yield significant long-term benefits for the Canadiens. By leveraging their depth on the left side of the defense, the team could acquire a veteran right-handed defenseman or young, impactful forwards. General Manager Kent Hughes has a track record of making bold moves to align with the team's rebuild timeline, and trading Matheson could be another strategic step in that process.