The Montreal Canadiens are actively pursuing a right-shot defenseman to bolster their lineup ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season. While the organization has yet to finalize a target, recent reports from NHL insiders have highlighted potential candidates who could fill this specific need.
During a recent appearance on Campbell vs Gallo, analyst Anthony Di Marco identified Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen as a primary target for Montreal. Di Marco also noted that Brandon Carlo, currently with the St. Louis Blues, is being considered as a viable alternative. Ristolainen, a veteran presence in Philadelphia, recorded 14 points—comprised of one goal and 13 assists—across 44 regular-season games during the 2025-26 campaign, while adding one goal and four assists in 10 playoff appearances. Meanwhile, Carlo, who has spent the last two seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs, contributed seven assists in seven games during the 2025-26 season.
Beyond defensive reinforcements, speculation has surfaced regarding Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon. While MacKinnon is currently signed to an eight-year, $100.8 million contract that keeps him in Colorado through the summer of 2031, NHL reporter Jimmy Murphy suggested on The Sick Podcast that the Avalanche might eventually need a significant roster and cultural shift to secure another Stanley Cup. Murphy noted that if the star forward were to become available, Montreal would likely emerge as the frontrunner to acquire him.
MacKinnon remains a cornerstone for the Avalanche, having tallied 127 points—53 goals and 74 assists—in 80 regular-season games during the 2025-26 season, followed by 15 points in 13 postseason contests. In other hockey news, Janet Gretzky, wife of Wayne Gretzky, recently addressed public criticism regarding his loyalty to Canada, which included support from Bobby Orr following the 4 Nations drama.
NHL Rumors: Canadiens linked to $25.5 Flyers star amid search for right shot defenseman
In the 2025-26 NHL season, Ristolainen recorded 14 points (1 goal, 13 assists) in 44 games.
He also played 10 games in the playoffs, scoring 1 goal and recording four assists.
While the Canadiens have not made a firm decision on whom they will acquire, an NHL insider has provided a major update.
In the 2025-26 NHL season, Carlo played 7 games and recorded 7 assists without any goals.
MacKinnon further recorded 15 points (7 goals, 8 assists) in 13 playoff games.
