Patrik Laine remained part of trade discussions as teams evaluated their options near the deadline. Both Montreal and Toronto were dealing with their own priorities at the time. Montreal had to balance injuries and long-term planning, while Toronto was trying to adjust its roster during a difficult stretch.
From that perspective, it is not surprising that talks between the two sides did not lead to a deal.
Why the Canadiens and Maple Leafs Couldn’t Close a Patrik Laine Trade
Laine remained with the Montreal Canadiens after the March 6 trade deadline, even though discussions with multiple teams took place.
In the final year of his $34.8 million contract, which carries an $8.7 million cap hit, Laine is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. That contract structure made him an option for teams, but it also required Montreal to find the right return.
The Toronto Maple Leafs were among the teams linked to Laine during that period as they looked to improve their offense. Their season has not met expectations, and management chose to move some players for future assets at the deadline. Meanwhile, Laine was injured, and the discussions did not lead to a final agreement.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported in his recent “32 Thoughts” column, “There were discussions about Patrik Laine ending up either in Philadelphia or Toronto, but it obviously didn’t work out.”
Friedman’s update clearly confirms that talks were serious before falling short.
It seems the outcome came down to a few practical factors. The $2 million signing bonus due on March 31 likely made Laine a more expensive option for teams at that stage of the season. His 10-team no-trade list may have further narrowed the range of possible destinations and made a deal harder to complete.
Health likely played a role in how teams viewed the situation. Laine appeared in only five games this season before his core muscle surgery in October 2025. He has returned to practice, but teams had to consider whether he would be ready to contribute immediately.
Montreal’s front office stayed firm in its approach during talks. General manager Kent Hughes did not want to include extra assets just to move the contract and preferred to wait for a deal that matched the team’s long-term plans. That decision meant the Canadiens were comfortable keeping Laine rather than forcing a trade.
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Looking ahead, attention now turns to the offseason. Laine is expected to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2026, which will allow him to choose his next team.
After Montreal and Toronto’s unfinished business, Laine’s situation will now unfold in the offseason.
