Stolarz, Montembeault and Hellebuyck headline Canadian trade candidates

With the 2026-27 season about to begin, all seven Canadian NHL clubs are carrying at least one player whose name keeps surfacing in trade chatter. The Hockey News has outlined a leading trade candidate on each roster, reflecting a mix of cap pressures, looming free agency and star players reportedly eyeing a change of scenery.

Goaltending questions in Toronto and Montreal

In Toronto, Anthony Stolarz is identified as the Maple Leafs’ most logical trade chip in net. With Sergei Bobrovsky locked into a three-year deal and Elvis Merzlikins on the books once he returns from injury, it would be difficult for the Leafs to run with three full-time goaltenders. Stolarz is entering the first season of a four-year, $15‑million contract after a difficult 2025-26 in which he posted a .893 save percentage, and his 16-team no-trade clause further narrows the potential market.

The piece notes that Merzlikins could also end up being the one moved, even though he has publicly shown enthusiasm for Toronto by liking social media posts linking him to the Leafs. Prospect Artur Akhtyamov waiting for an NHL opportunity only adds to the pressure to sort out the crease, making Stolarz an obvious name if a contender comes calling for goaltending depth.

In Montreal, attention shifts to Sam Montembeault. Jakub Dobes has solidified himself as the Canadiens’ starter, while top prospect Jacob Fowler is pushing for a chance, leaving Montembeault looking increasingly expendable in the organization’s long‑term picture. Insiders Darren Dreger and Frank Seravalli are cited as suggesting GM Kent Hughes may have a move in mind, with Montembeault the most likely piece to be shopped, even if his recent play may limit the return.

Centre depth, pending UFAs and cap juggling

For the Ottawa Senators, the situation is more fluid. The Hockey News points out that their place in the standings will dictate how aggressive they become. If Ottawa struggles, the organization’s strength down the middle could become a trade weapon. With Tim Stutzle, Shane Pinto and Dylan Cozens all under 26, the article argues that Pinto or Cozens would be the likeliest to move if management decides it needs a significant upgrade on the wings.

In Calgary, Morgan Frost is highlighted as a prime candidate. He is in the final year of his contract and, on a rebuilding Flames squad, stands out as arguably their best offensive threat. Coming off a career season with 22 goals and 43 points, Frost carries a $4.3‑million cap hit, making him an appealing addition for contenders. The Montreal Canadiens are mentioned as one of the teams already linked to the forward.

Edmonton’s Mattias Janmark is underlined as a possible cap casualty. He has a manageable salary and a no-trade clause, but local observers see him as a realistic option should the Oilers need to clear space. His fate could hinge on the early performance of Edmonton’s penalty kill: if that unit holds up, the club may feel comfortable moving a specialist like Janmark; if it struggles, his role could become too important to sacrifice.

Big-name trade targets: Hellebuyck and Pettersson

In Winnipeg, Connor Hellebuyck remains one of the most talked‑about names of the off-season. According to the analysis, the star goalie has made it clear he wants out, and the Jets are willing to listen, but only if the return justifies the move. The Carolina Hurricanes are portrayed as the most logical landing spot, while the Buffalo Sabres are also said to have been involved in discussions. The process has been slow, driven largely by Winnipeg’s high asking price.

Vancouver’s most prominent name in the rumour mill is Elias Pettersson. Reports have linked him to a potential change of scenery for months, with the Los Angeles Kings frequently mentioned as a top suitor. With the Canucks viewed as a team in transition, speculation has persisted, but any transaction would almost certainly require a club willing to absorb Pettersson’s full contract, narrowing the list of realistic bidders.

Jake DeBrusk offers Vancouver a more straightforward trade option. His lower average annual value makes him easier to move and attractive to a larger pool of teams, even if he lacks Pettersson’s elite upside. Taken together, these situations underline how each Canadian team enters the new season with at least one significant decision looming on the trade front.