The deal significantly strengthens Montreal’s top-four defensemen core, joining recent extensions for Kaiden Guhle and Lane Hutson and solidifying veteran presence alongside Noah Dobson.

The extension includes no-movement protections for the early years and a more limited no-trade clause in the later years, providing stability for Matheson.

Reaction on social media was mixed, with some fans praising the move as smart value and others questioning adding another puck-moving defenseman alongside Dobson and Hutson.

The deal was first reported by The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta, with formal confirmation anticipated as early as the same day.

Insiders expected an official announcement around late November 2025, aligning with the team’s schedule and surrounding games.

Matheson is off to a strong start this season with four goals and ten assists in 22 games, averaging a team-leading 24:50 of ice time per game.

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson, a former first-round pick who joined the team from Pittsburgh in 2022, signed a five-year extension worth an average of $6 million per season, effective for the 2025-26 season through 2030-31.

Montreal’s management views Matheson as a cornerstone of the defense, capable of mentoring younger players while contributing steady offense and two-way play.

Observers view the contract as favorable for Montreal, offering veteran stability at a comparatively modest AAV given potential free-agent market values.

The extension reinforces Montreal’s defensive strength and supports playoff aspirations in a competitive Eastern Conference.

The signing fits a broader strategy of locking in core defensemen, following recent deals for Guhle, Dobson, and Hutson.

The contract includes a full no-movement clause for the first three years and limited no-trade protection in the final years, adding long-term security for Matheson.