Maple Leafs & Canadiens Have Pieces to Make Deadline Trade

As the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens have a real chance to become trade partners. While it has happened only three times in the last 26 years, the two teams could meet for a fourth time.

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There are a few different names the Maple Leafs could look to sell in order to recoup assets for their retool. Some of those names could actually help the Canadiens as they gear up for what they hope is a long playoff run. So let’s take a look at which players could realistically be swapped between these two clubs.

Potential Trade Targets for the Canadiens

When you look at a deal between these two teams, it really comes down to what the Maple Leafs have that would interest the Canadiens. There are only a few names that make sense. It does not logically make sense for Toronto to send one of its top available players to its biggest rival. Instead, it would likely be depth pieces. This would be similar to the Tomas Plekanec deal back in 2018.

That narrows it down fairly quickly. The first and most obvious name is Simon Benoit. He is a reliable depth defenceman who would fit nicely in Montreal. Not only is he a Quebec native, but he also fills a role that is missing on the Canadiens’ blue line. As a defensive defenceman, he plays a physical, gritty style. He is not afraid to block shots or sacrifice his body. In addition, he would be a solid addition for a Canadiens team that could use another depth option on the back end ahead of the playoffs.

Up front, there are a few names that could make sense as well. Calle Jarnkrok stands out. He fits into a depth role but can also move up the lineup if needed. He is on an expiring contract. This could be appealing to Montreal if they are just looking for help down the stretch. If they wanted to explore options beyond pending UFAs, Dakota Joshua, Nicolas Roy, and Matias Maccelli are also viable trade targets.

What Would the Maple Leafs Want?

From the Maple Leafs’ perspective, the priority would be to recoup assets. Whether that means draft picks or young players who fit their style of play, like Arber Xhekaj, or even prospects with upside, that is likely the direction. What they probably do not want is to take back significant money or a player like Patrik Laine. That would feel counterproductive to what they are trying to accomplish.

It is rare to see these two teams make a deal. But as mentioned, it has happened before. Three times in the last 26 years. And with the deadline approaching, it would not be shocking if they found a way to make it four.

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