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Patrik Laine spotted in big hockey market city sparking major trade speculation

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Samer Dagher
August 4, 2024 (3:31 PM)

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Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine in a green suit

Photo credit: Columbus Monthly

Rumors about Patrik Laine possibly being traded to the Montreal Canadiens have resurfaced after the Columbus Blue Jackets forward was reportedly spotted at the Montreal airport.

Patrik Laine is a talented hockey player, having recorded over 50 points in six of his NHL seasons. However, after some less productive play, the Finnish player took a break to join the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. On Instagram, Laine shared that he needed time to focus on his mental health and thanked the community for their support.

"After careful consideration and discussions with my support network and the team, I have recognized the importance of prioritizing my mental health and well-being. Hockey has been my passion and my life, but I have come to realize that in order to perform at my best, I need to take this time to focus on myself.

I am grateful for the understanding and support of my team, the league, and our fans during this time. I look forward to returning to the ice with a clear mind and renewed energy. Thank you for respecting my privacy during this time and for your continued support.

With love,
Patty"

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Laine has now officially re-entered the league, having been cleared from the Player Assistance Program in late July. Since returning to the Columbus Blue Jackets, rumors about him being traded have persisted. It was believed that Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell might use Laine to make a big change in the team's structure.

"The Athletic: With Patrik Laine cleared from NHL/NHLPA players assistance program, #CBJ GM Don Waddell may now proceed with his last major transaction of the off-season."

These trade rumors have intensified in recent days. According to Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette, Laine was recently spotted at the Montreal Airport, as shared on The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro. Given the Canadiens' need for a goal-scorer and Laine's appearance in Montreal, the likelihood of a trade has increased.

"I've seen that there are red flags similar to those of Pierre-Luc Dubois for Patrik Laine that could be concerning. But at the same time, it's difficult to find players who want to come to Montreal, and Laine is an established sharpshooter who wants out of Columbus. He has just come out of the NHL's player assistance program, but the thing with Kent Hughes is that he has so many contacts across the league, so he'll do his homework. [...]

Is there a possibility that he could come here? YES! The Canadiens need players who can score, and Laine can do that. But I'm not sure if he would fit well in the team's chemistry in the locker room. We saw the example with Dubois in Los Angeles. We'll see, but he (Laine) was seen at the Montreal airport."

Though his presence in Montreal doesn't guarantee he will join the Habs, it certainly makes the possibility more likely. Regardless of where he ends up next season, hopefully, Laine will find the success he's looking for.

Source: Habs FanaticsPatrik Laine was seen at the Montreal airport, claims journalist Stu Cowan

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