The Montreal Canadiens have made a significant investment in their defensive core, signing veteran defenceman Mike Matheson to a substantial contract extension.
A Long-Term Commitment
On Friday, the Canadiens announced a new five-year contract for Mike Matheson, valued at US$30 million. This deal is set to begin at the start of the next NHL season and will keep the defenceman in Montreal through the 2030-31 campaign.
The announcement came just before the team's scheduled game in Las Vegas, solidifying Matheson's role as a key piece of the franchise's future.
Matheson's Impact in Montreal
The 31-year-old, an 11-year NHL veteran, is currently in his fourth season with the Canadiens. His performance this season has been notable, with four goals and 10 assists in 22 games so far in the 2025-26 season.
Perhaps more importantly, Matheson has shouldered a heavy workload for the team. He leads the Canadiens and ranks 10th in the entire NHL, averaging an impressive 24 minutes and 50 seconds of ice time per game. Since his arrival in a July 2022 trade that sent Jeff Petry and Ryan Poehling to Pittsburgh, his role has evolved. After a career-best 62-point season (11 goals, 51 assists) in 2023-24, he has since shifted to a more defensive-focused role, regularly tasked with shutting down the opponent's top lines.
A Veteran's Journey
Standing 6-foot-2 and 196 pounds, Matheson brings a wealth of experience. He was originally selected in the first round of the 2012 NHL draft by the Florida Panthers, where he spent his first five professional seasons. His journey then took him to Pittsburgh for two seasons before landing in Montreal.
Over his enduring career, Mike Matheson has skated in 649 career games, amassing 78 goals and 279 total points. This new contract represents a vote of confidence from the Canadiens' management, ensuring his leadership and defensive prowess remain in Montreal for the long term.
