Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs miss major trade for Knies

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 4:59 PM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs miss major trade for Knies
Summary

A proposed trade involving Matthew Knies between the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs fell through just after the NHL's trade deadline on March 3. Sources reveal that the deal was submitted one minute late, causing the trade to be disallowed. The Canadiens were set to acquire Knies in exchange for a significant package, including top prospect Alexander Zharovsky and two first-round picks. Canadiens GM Kent Hughes acknowledged the close call and hinted at potential discussions in the offseason, although the new Leafs GM John Chayka complicates future negotiations. The missed opportunity reflects the trade deadline's high stakes and narrow margins.

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Market Watch
  • Knies trade deal was submitted one minute late.
  • Habs were to send Zharovsky and two first-round picks.
  • Hughes acknowledged the trade's close proximity to completion.
  • Future negotiations between teams may now be more uncertain.
  • The incident underscores the importance of timing in trade discussions.
Latest Updates
  • 4:59 PMYahoo SportsThe truth behind the Deadline disaster that killed monster Matthew Knies trade
What they're saying
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This terrible blunder may have erased one of the biggest deals in recent NHL history.

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