NHL Trade Rumors: Insider Links Matt Benning To Canadiens

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman has linked the Montreal Canadiens to San Jose Sharks defenseman Matt Benning, as the team searches for a right-shot defenseman. 

On the October 28 episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Friedman reported that Canadiens GM Kent Hughes is targeting defensive help and a gritty forward, ideally on expiring contracts. 

However, Benning, 30, presents an interesting option despite his contract running through 2025-26 with a $1.25 million cap hit. 

“They want a defenseman and a forward who plays with an edge,” Friedman noted, acknowledging that Benning’s two additional years aren’t ideal given Montreal’s preference for short-term commitments.

Friedman on 32TP says aside from a forward with "edge", the Canadiens are looking for a right shot D (who isn't?). Friedman wonders about Matt Benning in San Jose, but he has another year left on his deal. Montreal would prefer someone on an expiring contract.

— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) October 28, 2024

Benning has 102 points and 239 penalty minutes over 463 career NHL games. 

Standing 6’1” and weighing 203 pounds, he offers the kind of toughness the Canadiens might value as they seek to bolster their blue line depth. 

Although his affordable cap hit could be appealing, the longer term on his deal might deter Hughes, who is focused on maintaining roster flexibility. 

As Friedman put it, “The Canadiens have been doing their due diligence, but it’s unclear if they’ll pursue Benning given the longer contract.”

Matt Benning, signed 4x$1.25M by SJ, is an analytical darling third-pairing defenceman. I'm not entirely sure why he is, but there you go. #SJSharks pic.twitter.com/9YZDBYtJ3H

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 14, 2022

While Benning's name has emerged as a potential fit, multiple insiders, including Pierre LeBrun and Frank Seravalli, have confirmed that the Canadiens remain engaged in trade discussions without any imminent deals. 

Benning remains one of several names linked to Montreal, but whether he becomes a priority target depends on how Hughes navigates his need for immediate help and desire for short-term commitments.

Photo Credit: Terrence Lee-Imagn Images