The Montreal Canadiens are expected to be buyers ahead of this season’s trade deadline. However, that doesn’t mean GM Kent Hughes won’t be subtracting off his current roster to do so, and the one trade candidate who seems to be drawing the most attention is winger Patrik Laine.

Laine, 27, is in the final season of his current deal, earning $8.7 million AAV. The former second-overall pick owns a 10-team no-trade clause, and is currently on the injured reserve, expected to return sometime after the Olympic break.

Nick Kypreos: Re Patrik Laine: I wonder if this kind of move could help Montreal open space to do something bigger – Sportsnet (2/2)

The Canadiens don’t have much for cap space to work with, so Hughes is likely going to need to get creative to make any significant deals, so it makes sense that Laine could be in play. He unfortunately hasn’t lived up to the hype with the Habs, appearing in just five games this season, recording one assist, meanwhile, produced 20 goals and 33 points in 52 games last season.

Laine hasn’t been able to stay healthy throughout his career, which has certainly hindered his development, however, when he’s on, and engaged, he’s among the best pure goal scorers in the league. There’s been plenty of chatter about potential destinations, and the Edmonton Oilers, and Carolina Hurricanes are two teams who could have various levels of interest. 

Could the Winnipeg Jets take on a bad contract at the Trade Deadline in order to gain a draft pick attached with it?

With the Canadiens in town taking on the Jets last night, @WiebesWorld explored the possibility of a reunion with the #NHLJets and Patrik Laine ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/rkcYVwhS29

— Winnipeg Sports Talk (@SportsTalkWPG) February 5, 2026

It seems like if Hughes wants to rid himself of Laine’s contract, he may have to retain a small portion to get a team to bite, and give up an asset in return.

Don’t rule out the Anaheim Ducks as well, as GM Pat Verbeek is looking at rental options, and was a big player in the Artemi Panarin sweepstakes, before it was known he’d only accept to Los Angeles.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images