Patrik Laine traded to Montreal Canadiens in lopsided deal

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Liam McCormick
August 19, 2024 (2:00 PM)

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Moments ago, the Columbus Blue Jackets finalized a trade to send Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens.

The Canadiens will receive Laine and a second round draft pick, and only give up Jordan Harris, a 24 year old defenceman with 131 NHL games played. For a player with the ceiling that Patrik Laine has, the Canadiens are giving up practically nothing.

Patrik Laine was drafted second overall in 2016 by the Winnipeg Jets, and came into the NHL with a bang. In his first two seasons Laine scored 80 goals, and seemed like a lock to become a consistent threat for near 50 goals a season. However, Laine scored 30 goals in the third year of his career, and since then hasn't surpassed that mark in the last 5 seasons.

Now 26 years old and coming out of the NHL, NHLPA's players assistance program after only playing 18 games last year, this trade shows that Laine is viewed as a negative asset around the league. His salary of $8.7M comes with significant risk considering the fact he hasn't performed in recent seasons, but if he can get back to his full potential, Laine could become a much-needed superstar for the Montreal Canadiens.

Blue Jackets General Manager commented on the deal, stressing the fact it was important for the team to shed Laine's contract in entirety without salary retention. Laine also demanded a trade from Columbus, which could've impacted their negotiating position, but it was clear they needed to move the unhappy superstar - even if they got rinsed in the trade.

Harris is a quality young defenceman, but blocked within the Habs roster and unlikely to become a real impact player. It's a great deal for the Canadiens to take the risk on a struggling superstar, adding a new piece to their core without giving up any significant assets.