Patrik Laine’s status in Montreal is one of the more intriguing storylines to watch as the Canadiens navigate the second half of their season. The Finnish winger, once one of the NHL’s most feared snipers, finds himself in a holding pattern - medically cleared, skating in a regular practice jersey, but still not part of the active lineup. And with the Olympic break approaching, the question isn’t just when he’ll return - it’s if he’ll return at all in a Canadiens sweater.
Let’s break down both sides of the situation - why a trade could make sense, and why Montreal might want to hold onto him a little longer.
Why a Trade Makes Sense
Laine hasn’t played in 45 games since undergoing core muscle surgery - a significant layoff by any standard. And while he’s back practicing, the Canadiens haven’t made any moves to reintegrate him into the lineup. That’s partly because the team is deep at forward, and partly because Laine’s style doesn’t exactly fit the mold of what Montreal is trying to build.
This is a team that demands a two-way game from its top-six forwards. You’ve got to forecheck, backcheck, and play responsibly without the puck.
That’s never been Laine’s calling card. He’s a pure scorer - a sniper who thrives on space and setup - but putting him on a line with Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki could force those two to pick up the defensive slack.
That’s a tough ask when they’re already carrying a heavy offensive load.
Then there’s the second line, which has quietly become one of the team’s most consistent units. Young talents like Oliver Kapanen, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Ivan Demidov are starting to click. Chemistry like that is hard to build and even harder to justify breaking up, especially for a player who might not bring the same energy on both ends of the ice.
So where does that leave Laine? Realistically, the only open spot would be on the fourth line - maybe rotating in with Zack Bolduc.
But even there, Bolduc’s more complete, more versatile game gives him the edge. It’s not that Laine isn’t talented - he just doesn’t slot easily into the current structure.
And if the fit isn’t there, maybe it’s time for both sides to explore a fresh start.
Why Montreal Might Hold Off
Of course, it’s not as simple as just moving on. Laine’s still a dangerous scorer, especially on the power play.
Last season, he racked up 15 goals with the man advantage - a big reason why the Canadiens were able to secure a playoff spot. That kind of production doesn’t grow on trees, and if Montreal is serious about making another postseason push, keeping a weapon like Laine in the arsenal could be a smart play.
There’s also the idea of getting creative with the lineup. If the Canadiens are willing to roll with 13 forwards or juggle lines occasionally, they might be able to find a niche for Laine - perhaps as a power-play specialist or a situational scorer. He’s shown he can deliver in big moments, and that kind of experience can be valuable down the stretch.
So while the fit isn’t perfect, the upside is still there. And that’s what makes this situation so tricky.
What’s Next?
Right now, it’s a coin toss. There’s no clear indication whether Laine will suit up for Montreal again this season.
The chemistry is clicking, the young core is developing, and the system is working - but Laine’s talent is undeniable. According to some around the team, it’s about 50-50 whether he’s moved before the Olympic break.
Until then, Canadiens fans are left in limbo - wondering if Laine will get another shot in the red, white, and blue, or if his time in Montreal is quietly winding down. Either way, it feels like a decision is coming soon.