The Patrik Laine trade rumors are swirling once again in Montreal, and it’s the topic every Habs fan is debating. Will the Canadiens finally move their high-priced, high-potential, yet often frustrating sniper during the 2025-26 season? The short answer: It’s complicated, but don’t expect a move just yet.
From what I’m hearing, and backed up by insiders like Frank Seravalli, a trade right now is highly unlikely. The Canadiens’ front office is in a “wait and see” mode, and frankly, that’s the smartest play. They hold the cards. Laine’s value is at a low point, and they aren’t in a cap crunch that forces their hand. The pressure isn’t on them; it’s on Laine to perform. His future in a Canadiens uniform will be decided by his play on the ice in the opening months of the season, not by preseason speculation.
The $8.7 Million Question on the Third Line
Here’s the core of the issue: Patrik Laine is carrying an $8.7 million cap hit, a number reserved for top-line, game-breaking talent. However, with the expected emergence of top prospects like Ivan Demidov and the continued development of Zack Bolduc, the top-six forward group looks crowded. This pushes Laine into a likely third-line role. Paying a third-liner nearly $9 million is a luxury no team wants.
So why keep him? One reason: the power play. Laine’s shot remains one of the most lethal weapons in the entire league. You can’t teach that release. The thinking in Montreal is that they can shelter him at even strength, put him in a position to succeed with reduced defensive responsibilities, and unleash him on the man advantage. If he can pot 15-20 goals from that spot alone while staying healthy and engaged, he rebuilds his value. If he struggles or his work ethic wanes, then the trade talks will fire up again in the months leading up to the NHL trade deadline, when a contender might be desperate for a power-play specialist.
A Potential Pacific Division Escape Route?
If a trade does materialize, keep an eye on the San Jose Sharks. It might sound strange, but the fit makes a lot of sense. The Sharks are rebuilding around a potential franchise cornerstone in Macklin Celebrini and are desperate for offensive talent and forward depth. They have the cap space to absorb Laine’s entire contract without blinking.
For them, the risk is minimal. Pairing an elite passer and playmaker like Celebrini with a pure sniper like Laine could be a match made in heaven, accelerating the development of their young star. It’s a high-reward gamble for a team that has little to lose, and it could be the perfect change of scenery that Laine needs to reignite his career.
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