The Montreal Canadiens returned from the Olympic break with a 4-3 overtime loss to the New York Islanders on Thursday, but the bigger picture still looks promising. Sitting third in the Atlantic Division, Montreal has positioned itself for what it hopes will be a deep playoff run.
With the trade deadline approaching, Montreal is expected to explore ways to strengthen the roster, and the Los Angeles Kings may hold the key to resolving the Canadiens’ $34.8 million situation.
A Landing Spot Has Emerged for the Canadiens’ $34.8M Star
The player at the center of the speculation is Patrik Laine, who is in the final season of his four-year, $34.8 million contract.
Laine has not played since Oct. 16, following core muscle surgery. Although he has resumed skating and participated in limited team activities, he is currently being evaluated daily for a lower-body injury that kept him out of practice following the Olympic break.
With his contract expiring after the season, Laine’s situation offers Montreal both flexibility and a decision.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun floated a potential landing spot. “One team I wonder about as a potential Laine landing spot? The Kings,” LeBrun said. “Yes, they just got Artemi Panarin, but they lost Kevin Fiala for the season.”
Los Angeles acquired Artemi Panarin before the Olympic break, but the loss of Kevin Fiala, who underwent left leg surgery during the Olympics and is expected to miss the remainder of the season, leaves a gap in their scoring depth.
LeBrun added that including Laine in a deal could help balance the salary cap in a meaningful hockey trade. “Patrik Laine as part of that deal would make sense, to give him a fresh start somewhere else. But also to make the salary cap math work in any tangible hockey trade… But if there’s a way to move Laine, the Canadiens will do that.”
Also, Laine’s agent, Andy Scott, has been granted permission to speak directly with teams about a potential move. Despite the speculation, Montreal is not operating out of desperation.
ALSO READ: Canadiens Trade Rumors: Montreal Linked With $36,000,000 Proven Winner
After acquiring Zack Bolduc in the summer and Phillip Danault in December, the Canadiens feel confident in their core. They rank among the league’s top five in goals scored and are getting healthier at the right time. More importantly, they do not view themselves as a team that is one bold swing away from a Stanley Cup. The focus remains on sustainable, long-term contention.
There is also risk in making a move that disrupts the chemistry of a young roster that has begun to find its identity. Still, Montreal continues to evaluate the market and would consider a trade if it presents itself. Whether that involves Laine and whether Los Angeles emerges as a true fit remains to be seen.
