Maple Leafs and Canadiens have pieces to make deadline trades

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

There are a few different names the Maple Leafs could sell to recoup assets for their retool. Some of those names could actually help the Canadiens prepare for what they want 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. Logically, it doesn’t make sense for Toronto to send one of its best available players to its biggest rival. Instead, they would probably be depth pieces. This would be similar to the Tomas Plekanec deal in 2018.

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

Beforehand, there are a few names that may also make sense. Calle Jarnkrok stands out. He fits into a deep role, but can also move up in the lineup if necessary. He has an expiring contract. This could be attractive to Montreal if they are just looking for help. If they wanted to explore options beyond the 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 asset recovery. Whether that means draft picks or young players who fit their playing style, like Arber Xhekaj, or even prospects with upside, that’s likely the direction. What they probably don’t want is to take back big money or a player like Patrik Laine. That would be counterproductive to what they are trying to achieve.

It’s rare for these two teams to make a deal. But like I said, it’s happened before. Three times in the last 26 years. And with the deadline approaching, it wouldn’t be shocking if they found a way to make it four.

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