Photo of Patrik Laine

Photo credit: NHL

Patrik Laine finds himself once again at the center of a rumor that is stirring conversation in Montreal.

Jonathan Marchessault’s name is once again circulating around the Canadiens, with the Nashville Predators in the picture.

Nothing is confirmed, but the idea is being floated. The key issue is the salary cap. Marchessault is under contract for five years, with a cap hit of $5.5M per season, running through the end of 2028-2029.

Laine carries a $8.7M cap hit, and his deal expires at the end of the 2025-2026 season. That is a massive difference, especially when trying to move a forward.

Chris Johnston reignites Jonathan Marchessault in Canadiens rumors

“Facilitating a trade for Marchessault would necessitate some money going out the door, with Patrik Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit the most obvious candidate to go.

The Quebec native would be a popular addition for the fanbase.”

– Chris Johnston

In reality, Marchessault is 35 years old and his 2025-2026 production has been modest: 28 games, 7 goals, 3 assists, 10 points, with a minus-18 rating. That does not erase his 2023 Conn Smythe Trophy, but it does explain why his name has been circulating so much over the past few weeks.

The Laine situation is more delicate because he is injured. He is 27 years old and has played only five games this season, with one assist and no goals, along with a minus-3 rating.

On October 25, 2025, he underwent abdominal surgery, and the team announced an absence of three to four months.

His contract expiring after 2025-2026 inevitably brings his name back into discussions, especially if Montreal wants to maintain flexibility.

Last season with the Canadiens, Laine still recorded 20 goals and 33 points in 52 games, which shows why his salary remains a major burden on the cap.

This situation is one to watch, but if Kent Hughes wants to acquire a player, he will have to move a high salary.

Previously on All Montreal Hockey

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Patrik Laine emerges as key piece in Canadiens trade discussions

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