Patrik Laine Traded to Montreal Canadiens in Blockbuster Deal
In a significant move that has stirred the NHL landscape, Patrik Laine has been traded from the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Montreal Canadiens. The trade sends defenseman Jordan Harris and a 2026 second-round pick to Columbus, with the Blue Jackets not retaining any of Laine's salary.
Laine, who joined the Blue Jackets just one game into the 2020-21 season, leaves a team that struggled through the 2023-24 season, finishing with 66 points—the worst record in the Eastern Conference and the fourth fewest points in the NHL. The Finnish winger's departure comes after he openly expressed his desire for a change of scenery.
"We want players that want to be Blue Jackets and Patrik made it clear that he thought a change of scenery was best for him," said Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell. "We were able to acquire a good young player in Jordan Harris while maintaining financial flexibility in this deal which was very important to us. We wish Patrik all the best."
Laine, originally drafted No. 2 overall in 2016 by the Winnipeg Jets, quickly made his mark in the NHL, scoring 80 goals in his first two seasons. His tenure with the Blue Jackets was marked by both brilliance and challenges. He missed nine games early in the 2022-23 season due to a concussion and an additional three games in December. Later in the season, he entered the NHL/NHL Players' Association Player Assistance Program in late January. Before entering the program, Laine had recorded six goals and nine points in 18 games.
Despite these setbacks, Laine had impressive consecutive 20-goal seasons in both the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns. His contract, which carries an annual value of $8.7 million, has two years remaining. This financial aspect of the trade was a critical consideration for Columbus as they aim to restructure and build towards future success.
For Montreal, the addition of Laine bolsters a squad that has missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. The Canadiens finished with 68 points in the 2022-23 season and slightly improved to 76 points in the 2023-24 season. The inclusion of Laine is seen as a significant step in reversing the team’s fortunes. Known for his scoring ability, Laine brings a dynamic offensive presence to Montreal, which will be vital as the team looks to compete more effectively in the ever-competitive Eastern Conference.
Given the Canadiens' struggle to make a substantial impact in recent seasons, Laine’s acquisition injects hope and excitement into their fan base. As the hockey world watches closely, the success of this trade will be measured not only by Laine’s performance on the ice but also by how well the young defenseman Jordan Harris integrates and contributes to the Blue Jackets' future.
This trade signifies a substantial shift for both franchises. Laine’s move to Montreal marks a new chapter in his career, while Columbus secures assets that they hope will aid in their long-term plans. As the 2024-25 season approaches, much anticipation surrounds how these changes will play out for both teams.