Kings Seek Offensive Boost After Fiala Injury, Canadiens' Laine Emerges as Trade Target

Patrik Laine's uncertain future in Montreal could align with the Kings' need for power-play scoring after Kevin Fiala's Olympic injury.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Los Angeles Kings are in need of offensive firepower, particularly on the power play, after star winger Kevin Fiala sustained a lower leg injury while playing for Canada at the Olympics. This opens the door for the Kings to potentially pursue a trade for Patrik Laine of the Montreal Canadiens, whose future in Montreal remains uncertain as he continues to recover from an injury. Laine's elite scoring ability, especially from the left circle on the power play, makes him an intriguing target for the Kings as they look to maximize their current competitive window.

Why it matters

The Kings are in win-now mode, having recently acquired Artemi Panarin, and can't afford an offensive void left by Fiala's injury. Laine's potential availability presents an opportunity for the Kings to bolster their power-play unit and maintain pressure on opponents. Meanwhile, the Canadiens may be open to moving Laine if his future in Montreal is unclear, allowing them to capitalize on his trade value.

The details

Fiala, a key part of the Kings' offense and power play, sustained a lower leg injury while playing for Canada at the Olympics. This leaves a significant hole that the Kings need to fill, especially with their competitive window open. Laine, a natural goal-scorer and power-play specialist, could be an ideal target for the Kings given his complementary skillset. However, Laine's future in Montreal is uncertain, as his role and relationship with the organization have been questioned under head coach Martin St-Louis.

  • Fiala was injured with 2:50 remaining in Switzerland's game against Canada at the 2026 Olympics.
  • Laine has been sidelined with an injury since October 2025.

The players

Kevin Fiala

A dynamic left winger for the Los Angeles Kings who excels on the third line and first power-play unit, providing crucial offensive production and creativity.

Patrik Laine

A natural goal-scorer and power-play specialist for the Montreal Canadiens, known for his elite shot and ability to change the momentum of a game with a single slap shot.

Kent Hughes

The general manager of the Montreal Canadiens, who is not in a rush to make a move but is opportunistic and recognizes the value of timing when it comes to potentially trading Laine.

Ken Holland

The general manager of the Los Angeles Kings, who manages an experienced team that is looking to win while its core is still capable.

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What’s next

The Kings and Canadiens will likely continue to have discussions about a potential trade involving Patrik Laine as the NHL trade deadline approaches. The extent of Kevin Fiala's injury and his timeline for return will also be a key factor in the Kings' decision-making process.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of roster depth and the ability to adapt quickly to unforeseen events, especially for teams in win-now mode. The Kings' need for offensive firepower on the power play could make Patrik Laine a valuable trade target, provided the Canadiens are open to moving the talented winger.