Patrik Laine is said to have turned down a major trade to a Western Conference team this summer
Photo credit: Patrik Laine/IG
Patrik Laine's decision to join the Montreal Canadiens marks a turning point for both him and the franchise, after rejecting a trade to a Western Conference team.
In a significant offseason move, the Columbus Blue Jackets traded Laine, along with a 2026 second-round pick, to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for young defenseman Jordan Harris. Despite Columbus showing patience with the Finnish forward, things never truly clicked, prompting Laine to seek a fresh start.
Though Montreal landed Laine, the Canadiens were not the only team vying for his services. Minnesota Wild General Manager Bill Guerin confirmed in an interview with La Velle E. Neal III of the Minnesota Star Tribune that his club had interest in acquiring Laine. According to Guerin, the 26-year-old forward refused the move due to his no-trade clause, showing a preference for Montreal.
"Guerin said he had made progress on a deal and believed he had a chance to complete a swap, until he couldn't. When I asked him if Laine wanted to come to the Twin Cities, Guerin said. "No."
That suggests, and what I suspect, is that Laine had the Wild on a no-trade list." Neal said.
That suggests, and what I suspect, is that Laine had the Wild on a no-trade list." Neal said.
The decision left the Wild without a player who could have significantly bolstered their lineup, especially alongside rising stars Matt Boldy and Kirill Kaprizov. Minnesota fans were left wondering how Laine's skill set could have transformed their offense. However, Laine ultimately saw a future in Montreal, believing the team has the potential to do «real damage» in the coming seasons.
Laine has already begun training with his new teammates, signaling his readiness to contribute to Montreal's growth. Although the Canadiens are not viewed as immediate playoff contenders, Laine's presence adds firepower to the team's rebuild. The key focus will be whether they can make a push for a wild-card spot this season, with steady improvement as their benchmark for success.
For now, Laine has made it clear that he's committed to helping the Canadiens move forward, marking the beginning of what could be an exciting chapter in his career and Montreal's rebuild.
Source: Blades of Steel
Patrik Laine reportedly rejected trade to Western Conference team this summer}»
Patrik Laine reportedly rejected trade to Western Conference team this summer}»
| POLL | ||
8 SEPTEMBRE | 324 ANSWERS Patrik Laine is said to have turned down a major trade to a Western Conference team this summer Will Patrik Laine score 30+ goals this season with the Montreal Canadiens? | ||
| Yes | 229 | 70.7 % |
| No | 95 | 29.3 % |
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