Mike Matheson Trade Rumors Rise as Canadiens Face Key Decisions Early This Season

Should he trade his veteran defenseman?

Since acquiring Noah Dobson, the Montreal Canadiens have found themselves with a surplus of defensemen in their organization.

On BPM Sports this morning, Renaud Lavoie examined the case of the player who has stabilized the Canadiens' defense in recent years.

First, let's recall a few facts about Mike Matheson. Since his arrival in Montreal, he has by far been the most used defenseman by Martin St. Louis.

Before the arrival of Lane Hutson, who stole his spot on the first power-play unit last season, the Pointe-Claire native had a 34-point season in 48 games and another 62-point season in 82 games, exceptional offensive statistics for a defenseman.

Obviously, his impressive offensive numbers dropped last season, but he was still a crucial reason for the Canadiens' playoff qualification.

Although Renaud Lavoie is convinced that Kent Hughes would like to keep Mike Matheson in Montreal, the situation surrounding the Canadiens' salary cap is likely to make things difficult.

In fact, Matheson's fate would be directly linked to the signing of Lane Hutson's next contract and the space it will consume under the Canadiens' salary cap.

If the Canadiens have a strong start to the season, Renaud Lavoie believes that Kent Hughes would prefer to take the risk of losing him for nothing at the end of the season rather than trade him mid-season.

That said, if the Canadiens struggle, the situation could completely change given the value Matheson could have for a team aspiring to the championship.

It only takes an injury to an important player or simply a disappointing season from Kirby Dach and Patrik Laine-two question marks for the Habs this season-for the Canadiens to find themselves near the bottom of the standings.

If that happens, you can be certain that the rumors surrounding Mike Matheson will intensify.