Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
Patrik Laine‘s next contract is expected to be a modest one.
Teams interested in the former Montreal Canadiens forward do not appear willing to spend big.
David Pagnotta described the current market trend, and the outlook is not encouraging for the Finnish forward.
The typical offer appears to be a league-minimum base salary, accompanied by performance bonuses.
“The sense that I’m getting with respect to Patrik Laine is, teams are probably looking at him going alright, we’ll give you a million bucks and we can slap on bonuses…but if you want more…as a base salary, you’re not getting it from us.”
– David Pagnotta, DFO Rundown
The message from NHL teams is clear.
No one wants to take a major financial risk on him.
Patrik Laine faces a major salary drop as NHL teams push for a bonus-heavy contract
The contrast with his most recent contract is striking.
Laine was earning $8.7 million per season until very recently. Going from that figure to a $1 million annual salary is a massive fall.
His numbers over the past few seasons explain the hesitation surrounding Laine, especially during the 2025-26 campaign, when the Finnish forward played just five games and recorded only one assist.
His injury history also weighs heavily in the evaluation.
It’s difficult to justify a high salary for such an unpredictable player.
That said, the proposed structure makes sense for both sides.
A low base salary protects the team, while performance bonuses reward Laine if he puts together a strong season.
For Laine, this may be the best path forward.
First prove his value, then cash in if he performs.
This is a story worth following!
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
POLL
1 HOUR AGO|154 ANSWERS
Patrik Laine’s new annual salary now appears to be known, and it’s a bargain
For $1 million on a one-year deal, would you bring Patrik Laine back to the Montreal Canadiens?