Edmonton Oilers

NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Canadiens & Maple Leafs Change

Oilers eye Tortorella and Montembeault as answers to key needs, while the Maple Leafs turn to Jim Hiller behind the bench.

by
Old Prof
June 18, 2026

Edmonton is weighing a hard-nosed coach in John Tortorella who could force accountability but might rattle the room. The Oilers have also quietly checked in on Canadiens goalie Sam Montembeault as a short-term netminding option, while Toronto has hired Jim Hiller after a wide-ranging search. Hiller is a familiar face who should slide in quickly with the Maple Leafs’ core.

Ringing Tortorella — Good Idea or Not?

John Tortorella’s loud, demanding style could give the Oilers the edge they’re hunting. He demands discipline, structure, and he’s someone who won’t sugarcoat things. If Edmonton wants a coach who pushes every shift and forces accountability, he’s a logical, no-nonsense pick.

But he’s polarizing. Some players respond great, and others shut down. Bringing him in sends a loud message about culture that could scare off certain free agents or rattle the locker room. Contracts, timing, and whether stars like McDavid buy in all matter — it’s a high-reward move but also a big risk.

Would Tortorella Actually Be a Fit in Edmonton?

Oilers Checking In On Sam Montembeault

It sounds like Edmonton’s poking around for Sam Montembeault. They are not the only team sniffing, but there’s genuine interest and a real path to a deal. Montreal’s got younger goalies coming up, so Montembeault could be moved for a mid-round pick or a modest prospect. That fits the Oilers’ budget for a short-term fix.

At $3.15 million for one more year he’s a low-risk option to pair with Tristan Jarry as a 1A/1B setup. It’s not ideal given questions about both guys, but in a thin market it’s a realistic way for Edmonton to chase more stability in net.

Canadiens Former Starting Goalie on Oilers Offseason Trade Radar

Sam Montembeault Canadiens injury update — Sam Montembeault of the Canadiens

Jim Hiller’s Back in Toronto as Head Coach

The Maple Leafs picked Jim Hiller after a big search. Over 20 candidates, including names like Jay Woodcroft and Patrick Roy, they decided Hiller was the right fit. He’s returning to familiar ground (he was an assistant in Toronto from 2015–19), comes off a solid run in LA, and has the kind of experience the front office likes.

GM John Chayka praised his player connection and clear approach, and Hiller said he’s thrilled to be back and ready to get to work with stars like Auston Matthews and William Nylander. Familiarity with the roster, along with his past ties to Chayka, likely helped seal the deal.

Maple Leafs Hire Jim Hiller as Team’s Next Head Coach