Canadiens' Interest in Maple Leafs' Knies Separate from Deadline Deal

NHL insider Chris Johnston clarifies that Montreal's interest in Matthew Knies was unrelated to their last-minute trade deadline move.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:35pm

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The Montreal Canadiens made headlines for not making a move at the trade deadline, but an insider has now addressed the reality behind the team's reported interest in Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies. NHL insider Chris Johnston clarified that the Canadiens' interest in Knies was separate from the deal they nearly completed before the deadline, and the discussions never advanced too far.

Why it matters

The Canadiens are currently third in the Atlantic Division and appear well-positioned for a playoff push, but their decision to stand pat at the deadline has raised questions about their plans. This report helps provide clarity on their reported interest in Knies and suggests the team remains focused on building around its young core.

The details

Despite not making a move at the trade deadline, the Canadiens had shown interest in several players as they sought to improve their chances of a deep playoff run. One of those players was Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies, but according to NHL insider Chris Johnston, the Canadiens' interest in Knies was separate from the deal they nearly completed before the deadline.

  • The Canadiens currently sit third in the Atlantic Division.

The players

Chris Johnston

An NHL insider who clarified that the Canadiens' interest in Matthew Knies was unrelated to their last-minute trade deadline move.

Matthew Knies

A forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs who the Canadiens had reportedly shown interest in acquiring.

Kent Hughes

The general manager of the Montreal Canadiens, who expressed optimism about the team's current roster and trajectory.

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What they’re saying

“I don't believe I think people are erring by connecting the two. The deal that went down to the wire, supposedly that the Canadians were working on before the deadline and then the fact that they had interest in Matthew Knies. I think it's two separate things.”

— Chris Johnston, NHL Insider

“The glass is half full. I think that's the way to look at it, and I think that's how our players look at it.”

— Kent Hughes, General Manager, Montreal Canadiens

What’s next

The Canadiens' next test comes on Saturday when they face the San Jose Sharks.

The takeaway

This report helps provide clarity on the Canadiens' reported interest in Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies, indicating that it was separate from the deal they nearly completed before the trade deadline. The team remains focused on building around its young core as it looks to make a deep playoff push.