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Canadiens, Oilers Explore Trade: Barrie for Edmundson?

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 12:00 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Alberta, Quebec, CANADA

Montreal, QC & Edmonton, AB - February 26, 2026 - As the NHL trade deadline rapidly approaches, both the Montreal Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers find themselves in remarkably similar positions: needing to bolster their defensive corps while operating under increasingly tight salary cap constraints. While both teams remain hopeful contenders, their current defensive shortcomings pose a significant threat to deep playoff runs. A potential solution, one gaining traction among analysts, centers around a trade involving Edmonton Oilers defenseman Tyson Barrie and Montreal Canadiens blueliner Joel Edmundson, but the implications could extend far beyond a simple one-for-one exchange.

The Oilers, despite boasting offensive firepower led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, have consistently struggled with defensive consistency. Barrie, a skilled offensive defenseman, carries a $6 million cap hit for the next two seasons, a figure that severely limits Edmonton's ability to address other roster weaknesses. While his offensive contributions are valuable, his defensive liabilities are increasingly exposed in the increasingly physical Western Conference playoff picture. General Manager Ken Holland is actively seeking ways to free up cap space to add grit and defensive responsibility, and moving Barrie, while perhaps painful, might be a necessary evil.

The Canadiens, meanwhile, are in a different phase of their rebuild. While not entirely stripped for parts, the team is strategically managing its cap, looking to integrate younger players while adding veteran stability. Their defensive depth is lacking, and they require players who can contribute offensively from the blue line. They have been actively seeking to shed salary where possible without sacrificing long-term potential. A veteran presence like Barrie, despite the cap hit, could provide a stabilizing influence and a much-needed offensive spark.

The proposed trade - Canadiens receiving Barrie for Edmundson - offers a straightforward solution to both teams' immediate needs. Edmundson, a larger and more physically imposing defenseman, carries a $3.5 million cap hit, providing Edmonton with $2.5 million in cap relief. This allows Holland to potentially target a free agent or acquire another player at the deadline without exceeding the salary cap. While Edmundson's offensive game isn't at the same level as Barrie's, his physical presence and defensive positioning would add a dimension the Oilers currently lack. He'd be a valuable asset in shutting down opposing forwards and clearing the front of the net.

For Montreal, Barrie represents an offensive upgrade on the blue line. His power-play prowess is well-documented, and he could significantly bolster a Canadiens power play that has struggled with consistency. He can quarterback the powerplay and create scoring chances that the Canadiens desperately need. Moreover, Barrie's experience and skill would provide a valuable mentoring opportunity for the Canadiens' younger defensive prospects.

Beyond the Basics: A Potential Catalyst for Further Movement

However, the implications of this trade could go beyond a simple swap of players. Several hockey insiders believe this deal could open the floodgates for a more active trade market. If both teams successfully address their needs through this exchange, other contenders might be more willing to make moves. Teams with similar defensive needs - like the Carolina Hurricanes or the Florida Panthers - could begin exploring options to add offensive defensemen. Similarly, teams looking to shed salary - like the Chicago Blackhawks or the Arizona Coyotes - could find willing trade partners.

Furthermore, the Barrie trade could influence the landscape of the upcoming free agency period. If Edmonton successfully creates cap space, they might be able to re-sign key players or pursue free agents who would otherwise be out of reach. For Montreal, adding an offensive defenseman could shift their priorities in the draft and free agency, potentially focusing on adding depth at forward or a goaltender.

The success of this trade, or any trade, hinges on several factors. The players' health, their ability to adapt to new systems, and the overall team chemistry will all play a role. But given the current landscape of the NHL, a trade between the Canadiens and Oilers, centered around Tyson Barrie and Joel Edmundson, seems increasingly plausible - and could spark a wave of activity as teams prepare for the playoff push.