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Predicting the moves Montreal Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes will make before Friday’s 3 p.m. Trade deadline is proving difficult, even for those within the organization. It appears Hughes himself may not have a firm grasp on potential deals as the team pushes toward playoff contention.
One thing, however, seems increasingly certain: forward Patrik Laine is no longer in the Canadiens’ long-term plans. It would be a surprise to see him remain with the team after their upcoming West Coast trip.
Despite the trade speculation, Laine is currently traveling with the team for their games against the Sharks, Ducks and Kings.
Hughes is reportedly seeking a reasonable return for the Finnish forward, but may have to settle for acquiring a team to take on Laine’s contract, potentially retaining half of his salary. Demand for Laine’s services appears to be limited.
According to a report from The Athletic, the Canadiens are hoping to discover a trade partner that will send them a player who can contribute to their playoff push. If that proves impossible, Montreal might need to incentivize another team to acquire Laine’s $8.7 million contract, while still retaining 50% of the cost.
A right-handed defenseman and a physical forward are reportedly on Montreal’s wish list, but current salary cap constraints are hindering their ability to finalize a deal.
Laine has not played since undergoing abdominal muscle surgery in October. He has resumed practicing with the Canadiens, but his future with the team remains uncertain.
Upon arriving in Montreal last year, Laine provided a spark, particularly on the power play. In 52 games during the 2024-2025 season, he scored 20 goals and added 13 assists.
The second overall pick in the 2016 draft has struggled to recapture the form he displayed early in his NHL career. Laine had a breakout season with the Winnipeg Jets in 2017-2018, scoring 44 goals in 82 games and adding 12 points in 17 playoff games. However, he has been unable to replicate that success with the Jets, Blue Jackets, or Canadiens.
“Whatever happens, happens,” Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki said regarding Friday’s deadline. “I think we were able to get Phil (Danault) probably earlier than other teams before the trade deadline, and he’s helped us. Our salary cap situation is a little tight, so we don’t have a lot of room to maneuver, and we already have a lot of talent in the NHL. So, I’m not expecting much.”
Reports indicate the Canadiens are hesitant to jeopardize their long-term future for a player who may only provide a short-term boost.
Montreal is currently in a playoff position, holding the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.
