Patrik Laine Isn’t Going Anywhere Easy for the Canadiens
Trading Patrik Laine isn’t going to be simple for the Montreal Canadiens. Montreal has had a ton of bright spots this season, and they’re thinking about upgrading at the deadline as most Stanley Cup contenders would do. However, moving a player like Laine is complicated. It’s not just about finding a taker; it’s about juggling money, performance, and a player with a say in where he lands.
The Canadiens Salary Cap Crunch.
First, there’s the salary cap. Laine’s contract isn’t small—$8.7 million a year. In fact, it’s the biggest for a forward on the team. He’s in the last year of that deal, which makes him attractive to teams who don’t want a long-term commitment. But the Canadiens can’t just slap a “for trade” sticker on him and call it a day. They need to clear space while also hoping to get someone useful back. That’s tricky when you’re already tight against the cap.
Laine Has a No-Trade List that Must Be Engaged.
Then there’s the 10-team no-trade list. Even if Laine is willing to roll with most options, this list limits the pool of teams that will even consider him. It’s not impossible, but it’s like trying to thread a needle while wearing mittens. You have to find a team that’s both eligible under the list and willing to take on his contract. Not exactly easy.
With Laine, There Will Be Performance Questions.
There’s also the performance factor. Laine’s had a shaky start this season—one assist in five games. He’s flashed brilliance in the past, especially on the power play. That said, NHL teams might worry that his inconsistency and injuries are a trend rather than a blip. On the flip side, if he heats up later in the season, Montreal could get a better return. Timing matters, as always.
A Possible Approach for Moving Laine.
So what could Montreal do? The answer is to look for a team that needs scoring punch and isn’t in a playoff sprint. Maybe package Laine for a top-six forward or a defenseman who can help immediately. Even dangling the possibility of an extension could make the offer more enticing, though that’s probably not happening.
The bottom line is that trading Laine seems logical on paper, but it’s a balancing act. Cap space, no-trade restrictions, and performance worries all make this a tough puzzle. The chatter will continue, but anyone thinking this is going to be quick and easy is in for a surprise.