Columbus Blue Jackets forward Patrik Laine has requested a trade, and a new trade proposal suggests sending the star forward to the Montreal Canadiens.
Laine was cleared to return from the NHL/NHLPA Players Assistance Program on July 26, which sparked increased trade speculation. The website PuckPedia, using its PuckGM tool for creating trade scenarios, has seen a proposal where Montreal acquires Laine in a multi-player deal.
In this proposed trade:
**Canadiens receive:**
– Patrik Laine
**Blue Jackets receive:**
– Mike Matheson
– Josh Anderson
Laine has two years remaining on his four-year, $34.8 million contract with Columbus. The former second-overall pick has faced injury issues and inconsistent play, leading to his trade request.
For Montreal, acquiring Laine would add a significant goal-scoring threat. With their rebuild nearing completion, adding Laine could improve their chances of making the playoffs in the 2024-25 season.
For Columbus, Josh Anderson could help fill the void left by Laine. Anderson, who has three years left on his contract, also needs a fresh start after a lackluster season with Montreal, where he scored only 9 goals and 11 assists for 20 points in 78 games. Anderson would be returning to Columbus, where he previously enjoyed considerable success.
Mike Matheson, a solid defenseman, could become a top or second-pairing player for the Blue Jackets. With two years remaining on his deal, Matheson might also be a trade asset if Columbus is out of playoff contention, potentially bringing in additional prospects or picks.
Columbus general manager Don Waddell has emphasized that the team will not trade Laine without a suitable return. Waddell seeks a deal that benefits the team’s overall strategy and may hold out if the offers do not meet their needs.
Montreal has had a quiet offseason, focusing on long-term contracts for key players such as Kaiden Guhle, Arber Xhekaj, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Justin Barron, rather than pursuing high-profile free agents. Canadiens’ general manager Kent Hughes has stressed that the team’s approach is centered on long-term development rather than immediate gains.
The Canadiens will kick off their 2024-25 NHL season at home against the Toronto Maple Leafs on October 9.
