The Montreal Canadiens appear to be hunting for one more major piece as they look to take the next step from a promising young team to a legitimate contender. Naturally, the idea of adding a proven NHL center down the middle has generated plenty of excitement among the fan base.
For a while, the possibility felt like more than just wishful thinking, but the latest developments are starting to paint a different picture. As negotiations continue in New Jersey, Montreal’s dream scenario may be slipping further out of reach.
Nico Hischier Extension Talks Make Canadiens Trade Dream Increasingly Unlikely
Nico Hischier remains one of the most attractive targets for any team seeking an elite center, which explains why the Canadiens have been linked with him so far this summer.
However, the latest reporting surrounding the New Jersey Devils captain points toward an extension rather than a blockbuster trade, significantly reducing Montreal’s chances of landing him.
NHL insider Kevin Weekes recently reported on X that negotiations between Hischier and the Devils are ongoing.
“Although talks are ongoing, my speculation is that Hischier and NJ Devils will land on a medium-term contract extension somewhere between $11M-13M range,” Weekes reported.
This update matters because Hischier is entering the final season of his current contract and becomes eligible to sign an extension on July 1.
While rival teams have monitored the situation closely, New Jersey’s stated priority has been keeping its captain in place long term. The organization views him as a foundational piece despite a disappointing 2025-26 season that ended without a playoff berth.
The speculation surrounding Hischier largely stems from timing rather than any indication that the Devils are eager to move him. A new front office, an approaching contract negotiation, and upcoming CBA changes have created an environment where rival teams are naturally exploring possibilities. Montreal has been among those teams keeping a close eye on developments.
Pierre LeBrun has repeatedly identified Hischier as an ideal match for the Canadiens. In a June 5 column for The Athletic, he wrote, “Montreal will keep an eye on how the Larkin situation plays out, but to me, Hischier is the best fit for the Canadiens.”
LeBrun expanded on that assessment by comparing Hischier to Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki.
“Hischier is a left-handed Nick Suzuki. The fit is beyond perfect for Montreal if Hischier were ever actually available,” LeBrun wrote, adding that the Canadiens would be prepared to pay a significant price if such an opportunity emerged.
The reasoning is easy to understand.
Hischier would immediately address Montreal’s long-standing need for a high-end second-line center while giving the team one of the league’s strongest two-way center combinations.
His faceoff ability, defensive impact, leadership experience, and offensive consistency make him a natural fit alongside a young core that includes Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Ivan Demidov.
Still, the biggest obstacle remains New Jersey’s commitment to retaining him. Hischier played all 82 games last season, recorded 66 points, and continued to provide the type of two-way play that teams spend years searching for.
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With contract discussions already underway and expectations leaning toward a new deal, Montreal’s blockbuster hopes appear increasingly tied to a scenario that the Devils are working hard to prevent.
Unless negotiations unexpectedly break down, the Canadiens may soon have to turn their attention elsewhere in the trade market.
