4 Goaltenders Who Could Be Traded In 2026-27

The NHL's transaction wire has certainly slowed down considerably towards the end of August, but that doesn't mean there's some significant moves coming entering the new season. Specifically, the goaltending trade market is certainly one to watch, as there's several goalies who are prime trade candidates enter 2026-27.

Here's four goaltenders to keep an eye on as potential trade candidates this upcoming season:

Sam Montembeault, Montreal Canadiens

The Canadiens took huge strides last season and that had a lot to do with their depth in net, as Jakub Dobes, and Jacob Fowler emerged as a very strong duo. With the 25-year-old Dobes landing a contract extension, and with Fowler's untapped potential, it's left Montembeault as the odd man out. Yes, right now Montreal is carrying three goalies, but they've also been in the market for a top-six forward, and could use Montembeault, who has one year left on his contract, and no trade protection, as a prime candidate to be part of the package that's shipped out. The Canadiens are in a very good spot with Dobes and Fowler, so moving Montembeault feels like a no-brainer.

Jordan Binnington, St. Louis Blues

The Blues retooled this summer, and showed a willingness to move out some of their previous core. Goaltender Jordan Binnington appears to be the next to go, as Joel Hofer is the goaltender of the 'now', and the future. Binnington's production has dropped considerably over the course of the last few seasons, and he has just one year left on his deal at $6 million, so fully expect to see the Blues cash in at some point, as they're not expected to offer the veteran netminder a contract extension. Binnington owns a 10-team no-trade clause, and will have some say in the matter.

Filip Gustavsson, Minnesota Wild

Gustavsson underwent offseason hip surgery, and isn't expected to be fully healthy when the puck drops on next season. The Wild have Quinn Hughes to worry about, but also could use their strength in net to make another big trade to address their lack of production up front, or to replace Hughes, if he does get moved to the New Jersey Devils. Gustavsson feels like the move as Jesper Wallstedt is five years younger, and expected to sign a lucrative, long-term contract at some point before the 2027-28 season. Gustavsson will have to prove he's back to his previous form, so don't expect a deal right away, but more so closer to December/January. He'll need to give his approval, as Gustavsson owns a no-movement clause.

Thatcher Demko, Vancouver Canucks

There's been a ton of buzz lately around what the Canucks will do in net, and it feels like the veteran Demko is becoming the odd man out on a rebuilding team. Demko's signed through the 2028-29 season at $8.5 million AAV, and any deal will need to include salary retention. Demko's only played 43 games the past two seasons, so his health and availability is the biggest concern, but if he proves he's healthy and back to form, contending teams will circle in at some point next season.