Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
A destination is starting to emerge in the Patrik Laine situation.
David Pagnotta believes the Los Angeles Kings could take a run at the Finnish forward.
It was on the Hello Hockey podcast that the insider shared his thoughts.
He offered his view on Laine’s future, and coming from an insider with excellent sources across the NHL (agents, players, general managers), it is very interesting.
Pagnotta expects the Kings to “take a chance” on Laine this summer.
It would not come as a surprise.
Los Angeles had already been mentioned in rumors involving the Finnish forward in the past, particularly around the most recent NHL trade deadline.
The club appears to have a clearly identified need.
The Kings are looking for help on the power play, possibly even a specialist in that area, which is where Laine can contribute.
Even if his five-on-five impact remains a subject of debate, Laine is still an elite power-play player, without question.
Patrik Laine’s low-risk UFA market creates a fresh NHL opportunity
Laine’s situation is unique.
The Finnish forward will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 and is no longer part of the Canadiens’ plans.
His most recent season was heavily impacted by injuries.
Laine played only five games for the Canadiens this year.
However, his situation opens the door to a low-risk contract.
“There is a decent level of interest in pending UFA Patrik Laine, 28. The hook there is that teams can sign him to a low-risk deal”
– LeBrun
The Kings would therefore be just one option among several.
You can see the full details of the report here:
It remains to be seen which team will ultimately take a chance on Laine.
A low-risk power-play specialist can attract plenty of interest around the league.
And for the Finnish forward, this fresh start would represent a golden opportunity to revive his career.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Patrik Laine linked to Kings as low-risk power-play fit gains traction
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