Could Patrik Laine Be on the Move Again? Two Potential Landing Spots Ahead of the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline
When the Montreal Canadiens traded for Patrik Laine a couple of years ago, the move was seen as a calculated swing at adding offensive firepower. Laine, looking for a fresh start after a string of injury-plagued seasons in Columbus, brought his elite shot and goal-scoring instincts to a Canadiens team aiming to claw its way back into playoff relevance.
Fast forward to now, and Laine’s time in Montreal has been a mixed bag. The talent is still there-when he’s healthy, he’s made his presence felt.
Last season, he buried 20 goals in just 56 games, and what really jumps out is his work on the power play. A staggering 15 of those 20 goals came with the man advantage, showcasing just how dangerous he can be in the right situations.
But that’s been the problem: getting him on the ice consistently. Injuries have continued to derail his momentum.
This season, he’s only suited up for five games, registering a single point before landing on injured reserve. He hasn’t played since October 16 against Nashville.
Still, there’s optimism he’ll return before season’s end. And with Montreal currently sitting in a playoff spot, there’s a real incentive to clear some cap space and explore the trade market.
That’s where Laine’s name starts to resurface. His contract and injury history might make him a tough sell, but for the right team, he could be a low-risk, high-reward swing.
Let’s take a closer look at two teams that could make sense as landing spots before the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline.
Seattle Kraken: A Calculated Gamble for Offensive Depth
The Kraken are in that tricky space where they’re good enough to be in the playoff picture, but not comfortable enough to stand pat. They currently sit third in the Pacific Division, but the margin for error is razor-thin. General manager Jason Botterill is reportedly open to making a splash, and while their attempt to land Artemi Panarin didn’t pan out-Panarin ended up with the Kings-Seattle is still in the market for scoring help.
That’s where Laine could enter the conversation.
Now, let’s be clear: Laine isn’t a top-line option at this stage. But for a team looking to bolster its depth and potentially catch lightning in a bottle, he’s an intriguing fit.
The Kraken have the cap space to absorb his contract outright, though it’s likely Montreal would retain some salary to make the deal more palatable. Either way, the cost to acquire him shouldn’t be high, especially given his injury status and expiring deal.
Seattle has also reportedly floated the names of Shane Wright and Matty Beniers in trade talks, aiming for a more established top-six forward. Laine doesn’t quite fit that mold, but he does offer something different-pure scoring upside in a depth role. If he can stay healthy, that shot of his could be a weapon on the power play or in sheltered minutes.
And if it doesn’t work out? No long-term commitment.
Laine hits free agency this summer. For a team looking to take a smart swing without mortgaging the future, this could be a move that makes sense.
Carolina Hurricanes: Depth Scoring for a Contender
The Canadiens and Hurricanes have a bit of a complicated trade history-remember the Sebastian Aho and Jesperi Kotkaniemi offer sheets? But front office dynamics change, and with different decision-makers in place now, the door isn’t necessarily closed between these two clubs.
Carolina doesn’t have many glaring needs. They’re one of the most complete teams in the league, especially offensively.
But as we’ve seen in countless playoff runs, depth matters. And Laine could be a savvy addition to round out their forward group.
He wouldn’t be asked to carry the load in Carolina. Instead, he could slot in as a complementary piece, perhaps alongside young center Logan Stankoven-who the Hurricanes view as their second-line pivot of the future. Laine’s shooting ability could make him a strong fit in that role, especially if he’s given favorable matchups and power-play time.
For Carolina, the 2026 deadline is less about fixing weaknesses and more about reinforcing strengths. If the price is right, adding Laine could be a smart depth play-one that adds another layer to an already potent offense without disrupting team chemistry or long-term plans.
The Bottom Line
Patrik Laine’s name may not be headlining trade boards this year, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t worth a look. For teams like Seattle or Carolina, who are each in very different positions but share a common goal of making a postseason push, Laine could be a sneaky-good addition.
The upside is there. The risk is manageable.
And if he finds the right situation, his impact could be felt in a big way down the stretch.
Whether it’s the Kraken taking a chance or the Hurricanes shoring up their depth, don’t be surprised if Laine finds himself on the move again before the deadline.