The Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens were reportedly close to a blockbuster deal involving Matthew Knies before the NHL trade deadline. Now, new details from NHL insider Jeff Marek have revealed the full package Montreal was willing to send.
Proposed Trade Package Revealed
The proposed trade included multiple premium assets, showing how much the Canadiens valued the young Toronto Maple Leafs forward. The latest revelation has prompted a new wave of chatter about one of the most compelling NHL trade rumors in recent years.
NHL insider Jeff Marek has now revealed the full package the Montreal Canadiens reportedly offered for Matthew Knies. Montreal was said to have been willing to include prospect Alexander Zharovsky and two first-round picks in previous reports. However, the last asset remained a mystery until Marek discussed it on his podcast.
Marek stated, "It's Alexander Zharovsky, another defensive prospect I believe Bryce Pickford from the Medicine Hat Tigers who just had an unreal season and two first round picks," thereby confirming that the proposed package would also include defense prospect Bryce Pickford. The Medicine Hat Tigers blueliner had a breakout 2025-26 campaign, scoring 45 goals and adding 38 assists for 83 points in 55 games.
What the Maple Leafs Would Have Received
The reported deal would have sent the Toronto Maple Leafs the following assets:
- Alexander Zharovsky
- Bryce Pickford
- Two first-round draft picks
The trade was reportedly agreed upon but was never consummated prior to the NHL deadline and thus never became official. However, trading four valuable assets could complicate the Montreal Canadiens' quest to fill their need for a top-six center down the road. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs held onto one of their promising young forwards in Matthew Knies.
A Blessing in Disguise?
Looking back, perhaps the unsuccessful deal was actually a blessing in disguise for both organizations. Ultimately, Toronto landed the first overall pick in the NHL Draft lottery, while Montreal retained valuable assets that can be used in future roster additions.
One of the more interesting stories in recent NHL news roundup discussions has gained another chapter, thanks to the latest report from Jeff Marek. As the offseason approaches, fans will continue to wonder how things could have been different if the deal had gone through.
