PUBLICATION
Leo Honein
January 23, 2026Â Â (12:54)
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
More and more, it seems obvious that Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens want to trade Patrik Laine, and to do so as quickly as possible.
Yes, the name Patrik Laine is once again circulating heavily in Montreal. In recent days, questions have resurfaced about his role and the idea of a trade.
The angle that comes up the most is simple: if the Canadiens can get some value, even a modest one, they are listening.
The trade deadline is approaching quickly, and so is the deadline before the Olympic break!
On the ice, the numbers are easy to sum up.
In 2024-25 with the Canadiens, Laine scored 20 goals and recorded 33 points in 52 games.
This season, he has just one point in five games, an assist, with a -3 rating.
The Canadiens are ready to trade Patrik Laine for “something” right now
So what is Kent Hughes asking for in return for Laine?
According to journalist Stu Cowan, the Habs are literally asking for anything that has a bit of value.
Laine has 224 goals and 422 points in 537 NHL games.
For a team looking for offensive punch, those totals still carry some value, even when the situation in Montreal becomes unclear.
So what would the Canadiens be asking for, concretely, in a trade scenario?
The idea that keeps coming up is a “useful” return without aiming for a blockbuster – something like a draft pick or a young player who can still develop.
In short, something that moves the needle, even a little, rather than dragging out a story that keeps going in circles.
Most importantly, the Canadiens control the pace.
If a team calls with a reasonable offer, Kent Hughes can act, that would truly be the ideal scenario!
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics