Kent Hughes Explores Trade for Matthew Knies Before Deadline
Kent Hughes, the general manager of the Montreal Canadiens, reportedly explored a trade for Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies prior to the trade deadline on March 9, 2026. Despite the discussions, the proposed trade did not materialize.
Matthew Knies, a 23-year-old power forward, has had a notable season, scoring 16 goals and providing 35 assists, totaling 51 points in 61 games. He has also recorded 122 hits and averages 18:45 of ice time per night. His current contract has a cap hit of $7.75 million, which extends through the 2030-31 season.
The Canadiens’ interest in Knies reflects Hughes’s ongoing efforts to enhance the team’s roster. A trade between the Canadiens and Maple Leafs is considered rare, making this potential deal particularly noteworthy.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the identity of the mystery player the Canadiens nearly acquired at the deadline. However, insiders suggest that Knies’s name was circulating among multiple teams, indicating a broader interest in the young forward.
Nick Kypreos, a sports analyst, mentioned, “If the Leafs truly open the door on Matthew Knies, Montreal should be first in line.” This sentiment underscores the strategic positioning of the Canadiens as they look to bolster their lineup.
While the trade did not happen before the deadline, Hughes is expected to revisit discussions regarding Knies in the summer. The Canadiens currently possess a deep prospect pool and significant draft capital, which could facilitate future trade negotiations.
In the past, the Canadiens passed on selecting Shane Wright in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, a decision that has been scrutinized as they continue to seek impactful players to strengthen their roster.
As the offseason approaches, the Canadiens’ management will likely focus on leveraging their assets to secure key players like Knies, who could play a pivotal role in the team’s future success.
