The Montreal Canadiens were speculated to be involved in the Patrik Laine trade talks out of Columbus. Kent Hughes, the Canadiens’ general manager, is notorious for taking on clever reclamation projects and either putting them to good use on his squad or flipping them for profit. Laine may have presented such an alternative because the Blue Jackets are ready to move on and Laine is seeking for a new beginning.
However, a new revelation by Canadiens journalist Eric Engels has put any suspicions about the Canadiens’ actual desire to rest.
Canadiens Have “Minimal Interest” In a Laine Trade
Engels, who is well-known for being as up to date on Canadiens news as anybody, recently featured on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro. He was asked about the possibility of a Laine trade to Montreal and effectively denied it, albeit admitting he wasn’t paying attention when the rumors initially started.
Engels stated that the Canadiens’ interest would be “minimal” at most, and he dismissed speculations that the team would be a favorite to sign the NHL sniper.
He explained:
“You know, I’ve obviously poked around on this I’m kind of laughing cuz like you know Twitter has this new for you feature… and you know stuff that’s been pushed to me over the last couple months or at least couple weeks, actually intensely, is you know a couple people say hey on the Canadians are front runners for Patrik Laine and it’s just like I’m sitting back laughing… let’s be real about the situation. Patrik Laine is on the market for a reason.”
Why the Canadiens Aren’t Interested
There are various reasons for their unwillingness to pursue Laine. First, Laine’s recent departure from the NHL’s Player Assistance Program allows clubs to discuss trades, but the Canadiens, like other teams, are unsure of his current mental and physical state. His drop in on-ice performance raises issues that the Canadiens are unlikely to take on. His skill has visibly deteriorated in recent years, and while Laine may want a fresh start, it’s unclear whether Montreal is the best match for him.
Second, Engels stated that one important consideration is whether Laine wants to move from the Player Assistance Program to the tremendous limelight that comes with playing in Montreal. The Canadiens are notorious for their demanding fan base and media scrutiny, which may not be ideal for a player seeking stability, less pressure, and a figurative second chance.
Finally, Engels mentioned that Montreal is proud of its positive team environment and locker room climate, and they may be hesitant to recruit a player like Laine because to the baggage he brings. Given where the Canadiens are in their growth and Laine’s needs, the move might jeopardize everything they are trying to achieve.
Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit and $9.1 million real compensation represent huge financial obligations. Although the Canadiens have the cap space to absorb his contract, Hughes is known for taking on contracts that he can make something of. It would necessitate a significant concession from the Columbus Blue Jackets (likely 50% retention), and Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell has thus far refused to go there.
Finally, Laine’s personal difficulties, his large salary, and Montreal’s present team dynamics make a move unlikely. At the very least, the Canadiens aren’t the front-runners like some speculations suggest. It’s unclear whether other suitors, such as the Minnesota Wild, will emerge as new favorites. It’s probable that Laine won’t leave before the 2024-25 season starts.
