NHL Trade Talk Recap: Canadiens, Wild & Oilers Trade Idea

In today’s NHL Trade Talk Recap (August 25, 2026), there is plenty happening around the NHL, from coaching decisions and contract talks to one very interesting trade idea. Montreal appears ready to keep Martin St. Louis around, Quinn Hughes’ next deal with Minnesota is moving slowly, and the Oilers could be a team to watch if the Flyers decide to shop Matvei Michkov.

The Canadiens Want Martin St. Louis to Stay

Geoff Molson says the Canadiens aren’t looking to replace Martin St. Louis. Even though the coach has one year left on his contract, Montreal clearly likes what he’s doing and appears interested in keeping him around long term.

The decision will ultimately be St. Louis’s, but the Canadiens appear ready to offer him more money and a longer deal. The Canadiens may just be waiting until everyone is back from the offseason before finalizing the extension.

Canadiens Owner Sends Clear Signal on Martin St-Louis’ Future

Quinn Hughes’ Contract Talks Are Taking Longer Than Expected

Elliotte Friedman says he’s surprised Quinn Hughes’ extension talks with the Wild haven’t moved faster. He suggested Hughes and some of his U.S. Olympic teammates have been enjoying their summer, which may have pushed hockey business aside for now.

There also doesn’t appear to have been much real negotiating between Hughes and Minnesota yet. Friedman says it’s not time to panic, but if Hughes still doesn’t have a deal when the season begins, that could mean something unusual is happening. His situation may also be tied to what Cale Makar signs.

Has Hughes’ ‘Partying’ Created a Contract Situation Few Saw Coming?

Could the Oilers Make a Huge Move for Matvei Michkov?

Matvei Michkov is a young, talented scorer. But things in Philadelphia may be getting a little uncomfortable with coach Rick Tocchet. His ice time and production have become points of discussion, and questions about his defence, conditioning, and relationship with the coach could eventually prompt the Flyers to consider a trade.

The Oilers could offer a package built around Isaac Howard, a young defenceman and several draft picks. It’s an intriguing hypothetical: Edmonton would get a dangerous top-six winger to play with Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, while Philadelphia would add multiple young pieces and valuable picks if it decided Michkov wasn’t the right long-term fit.

Oilers Trade Package for Matvei Michkov — Would You Accept?

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