Chris Johnston reveals what Kent Hughes needs to do to trade Patrik Laine
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Let’s be honest, the Patrik Laine situation is starting to weigh heavily around the Montreal Canadiens.
Insider Chris Johnston dropped a new piece of information this week: Kent Hughes will most likely have to add an asset or retain salary to successfully move the Finnish forward.
Laine simply does not have a clear spot in Martin St-Louis’ lineup at the moment.
After undergoing surgery for an abdominal muscle injury that sidelined him for three to four months, his return has been difficult.
Let’s tell it like it is: the stats are not on his side this season.
In just five NHL games played this year, he has recorded one assist and no goals. His impact has been minimal, with a -3 rating and only six shots on goal.
Kent Hughes must add an asset to trade Patrik Laine
Re Patrik Laine: The Canadiens are likely gonna have to attach some kind of value piece to him to move him I think, or retain salary or do a bit of both.”
– Chris Johnston
Despite this distracting situation, the Canadiens are surprising and currently sit second in the Atlantic Division. Montreal holds a 32-17-8 record for a total of 72 points. The team is firmly in the playoff race, which changes the equation for upcoming trades.
At home, the Canadiens have posted a 16-11-1 record. Nick Suzuki’s squad also shut down the Winnipeg Jets with a 5-1 win last Wednesday.
Brendan Gallagher stole the show with one goal and two assists in the victory.
It remains to be seen whether Hughes will dare to sacrifice a draft pick or a young prospect to unload Laine’s contract before the deadline.
One thing is certain: cleaning up the salary cap has become the priority to allow for further acquisitions heading into the summer.
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Chris Johnston reveals what Kent Hughes needs to do to trade Patrik Laine
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