Montreal's GM Kent Hughes is likely looking to make a move similar to the Kirby Dach trade from last season, and Laine could be a perfect fit. The Finnish star is 6 feet 5 inches tall, weighs 215 pounds, is 26 years old, and has accumulated 388 points, including 204 goals, in 480 career NHL games.
Arpon Basu of The Athletic discussed in his podcast what it might take to acquire Patrik Laine, suggesting he could be a more affordable option compared to players like Martin Necas and Trevor Zegras .
Despite Laine being one of the best goal scorers in the league, his injury concerns have decreased his value, making his hefty $8.7 million contract difficult to trade. Thus, the following trade proposal between the Blue Jackets and Canadiens could benefit both teams:
The Canadiens would move up one slot in the draft, potentially selecting a player who might not be available at 5th overall. The Blue Jackets would drop one spot but clear $8.7 million off their cap books.
