In a significant move that could potentially shift dynamics within the NHL, the Columbus Blue Jackets have traded Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens. In return, the Blue Jackets have acquired defenseman Jordan Harris and a second-round pick in the 2026 draft. This transaction marks a new chapter for both Laine and the Blue Jackets, with both parties clearly seeking fresh starts.
Laine's Journey with the Blue Jackets
Patrik Laine's tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets has been a roller-coaster ride. He joined the team just one game into the 2020-21 season, after being traded from the Winnipeg Jets, where he was originally drafted No. 2 overall in the 2016 NHL Draft. Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Laine wasted no time in making an impact in the league, netting 80 goals in his first two seasons with the Jets.
However, his journey with the Blue Jackets was marred by inconsistency and injury. Laine missed nine games at the start of the 2022-23 season due to a concussion and an additional three games in December of the same season. Despite these setbacks, he managed to record consecutive 20-goal seasons in both the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns.
A Challenging Season for Columbus
The 2023-24 season proved to be particularly challenging for the Blue Jackets, who finished with just 66 points, the worst record in the Eastern Conference and the fourth fewest points in the NHL. Amidst these struggles, Laine joined the NHL/NHL Players' Association Player Assistance Program in late January, a decision that likely impacted his performance and playing time. Before entering the program, he had six goals and nine points in 18 games, a stark contrast to his previous output.
Reasons for the Trade
Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell provided some clarity on the decision to trade Laine, stating, "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." It seems that the mutual understanding between Laine and the team was pivotal in facilitating this move.
Waddell also highlighted the strategic importance of the trade for Columbus, saying, "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." The Blue Jackets did not retain any of Laine's salary, which will provide them with additional cap space moving forward.
Laine's Prospects with the Canadiens
For the Montreal Canadiens, acquiring Patrik Laine adds a significant offensive weapon to their lineup. The Canadiens have missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons, finishing with 68 points in the 2022-23 season and improving slightly to 76 points in the 2023-24 season. Laine's scoring ability and experience could be instrumental in helping the Canadiens break their playoff drought.
Laine's contract carries an annual value of $8.7 million and has two years remaining, which represents a significant investment for the Canadiens. It remains to be seen how Laine will adapt to his new environment and whether he can rediscover the form that made him one of the most promising young talents in the league.
This trade is a clear signal that both teams are looking to course-correct after disappointing seasons. While Columbus gains a young defenseman in Harris and additional future draft capital, Montreal takes a calculated risk in obtaining a player who has shown flashes of brilliance but has also dealt with various challenges in recent years. The coming seasons will reveal whether this move will pay off for the Canadiens and whether Laine can reestablish himself as a premier goal scorer in the NHL.