The Montreal Canadiens' acquisition of Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders in June was one of the biggest moves in this year's NHL trade market. However, they have a bit of a logjam on the blueline.
During an appearance last week on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro, Sportsnet's Eric Engels suggested the Canadiens could end up moving a defenseman at some point this season to make room for promising David Reinbacher or Adam Engstrom.
Engels singled out Mike Matheson, Jayden Struble, and Arber Xhekaj, suggesting one of them might not be with the Canadiens between now and this time next year.
Matheson seems the most likely trade candidate. The 31-year-old is the oldest member of their defense corps and eligible for UFA status next July. However, Canadiens management could be reluctant to move Matheson, having praised his experience, leadership, and all-around abilities.
Struble recently signed a two-year contract, but his improved performance and affordable $1.412 million cap hit could make the 23-year-old an enticing trade chip. Xhekaj's size and physical style make him a fan favorite in Montreal, but he was a healthy scratch for several games down the stretch last season.
Speaking of possible trade candidates. Allan Mitchell of The Athletic recently looked at several Edmonton Oilers players who could be on the move this season.
One of them is Stuart Skinner. The 26-year-old goaltender carries an affordable $2.6 million cap hit this season and is UFA-eligible next July.
Skinner's inconsistent play is an area of concern for Oilers management, who acknowledged they would seek ways to upgrade their goaltending. It was assumed they'd like to find someone with starter experience to split the duties and push Skinner to elevate his game.
Mitchell pointed out that Skinner has 50 playoff games and two Stanley Cup Finals under his belt. Any significant improvement in his performance this season could silence his critics and reduce the need to add another netminder. However, Mitchell also thinks he could be a key piece in any move for a goalie upgrade.
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