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There could be a signal that Patrik Laine’s time might be up in Montreal, as the Canadiens head into the trade deadline.
The Montreal Canadiens head into the trade deadline looking to find upgrades without necessarily mortgaging the team’s future. That situation means finding serviceable pieces without breaking the bank.
The Phillip Danault trade with the LA Kings was a prime example of that. But there are other areas in which the Canadiens could look to update. Notably, the chatter surrounding the Habs has suggested the team is looking for another top-six forward.
The Canadiens have one in Patrik Laine. However, Laine has only played five games this season, hitting the shelf with what looks to be a groin injury. The Habs have been carrying his $8.7 million cap hit all season, despite his complete absence from the lineup.
Now, it seems that Laine’s time is up in Montreal. Speculation has hit the airwaves following a social media post by Laine’s wife. In the post, Mrs. Laine described the anxiety affecting the family amid the uncertainty regarding Laine’s future with the Canadiens:
“Waiting on the hockey gods to decide your family’s future.”
The words by Mrs. Laine offer plenty of subtext. Yes, Laine is an impending UFA. And there doesn’t seem to be any inkling about Laine’s future in Montreal either way. The Canadiens haven’t really hinted that they’re looking to move on or keep him.
That’s why the “hockey gods” must decide if Laine remains a fit in Montreal or if he’ll need to find employment elsewhere.
Canadiens May Try to Move Laine’s Contract at Deadline
The Canadiens may look to move Laine’s contract at the trade deadline. Doing so would clear about $4 million of his total cap hit at this point. That amount would be enough to add a solid depth forward.
That’s merely speculation at this point. As stated earlier, the Canadiens haven’t really tipped their hand with regard to Laine’s future with the club. But if the Habs wanted to move him, it would have to be to a team willing to take on the remainder of his contract in exchange for a draft pick.
Laine May Still Be in Habs’ Plans
The likeliest outcome is that the Canadiens want to see how Laine fares after fully recovering from his injury. If he can return to full health and replicate last season’s 20-goal campaign, Laine could still be a solid middle-six forward. It’s easy to forget he’s only 27. So, there’s still room for him to grow into a reliable 20-goal scorer for the rest of his career.
If the Canadiens wanted to bring Laine back, it would have to be on a short-term deal. Perhaps a one-year show-me deal could move the needle. From there, Laine would have the opportunity to prove he’s still worthy of a long-term contract, be it in Montreal or elsewhere.
In the meantime, there’s still time for Laine to come back this season and contribute. That opportunity, however, may not come in Montreal. The Canadiens have built a solid roster. As such, it’s tough to see who Laine might squeeze out if given the chance to return.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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