Canadiens Seek Trade Options for Injured Winger Patrik Laine

Two potential landing spots for the struggling forward before the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly open to trading winger Patrik Laine, who has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play since being acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets a couple years ago. With Laine on injured reserve and the Canadiens in playoff position, a trade could provide cap flexibility and a fresh start for the talented but oft-injured forward.

Why it matters

Laine's trade value has diminished due to his injury history, but he could still provide scoring punch for a contending team if healthy. A deal could benefit both the Canadiens, who need cap space, and a team willing to take a chance on Laine's upside.

The details

The Canadiens are reportedly willing to move Laine, who has played just five games this season due to injury and has scored only one point. Montreal could look to the Seattle Kraken or Carolina Hurricanes as potential trade partners, with the Kraken potentially seeing Laine as a low-risk, high-reward option for scoring depth, while the Hurricanes could view him as a reinforcement for their potent offense.

  • Laine has been on injured reserve since October 16th, 2025 when he last played against the Nashville Predators.
  • The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is approaching on March 3rd, 2026.

The players

Patrik Laine

A 24-year-old winger for the Montreal Canadiens who was acquired in a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets a couple years ago. Laine has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play during his time in Montreal.

Jason Botterill

The general manager of the Seattle Kraken, who is reportedly open to making a big trade before the deadline to bolster his team's playoff push.

Logan Stankoven

A young center for the Carolina Hurricanes who the team views as its second-line center of the future.

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What’s next

The Canadiens will need to decide whether to trade Laine before the March 3rd, 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, or hold onto him and hope he can return from injury and contribute to their playoff push.

The takeaway

Patrik Laine's injury struggles have diminished his trade value, but a contending team may still be willing to take a chance on the talented winger if the price is right. A deal could benefit both Laine and the Canadiens, who need cap flexibility to operate on the trade market.