Patrik Laine’s time in Montreal has been anything but predictable. The 27-year-old winger, once a marquee name in Winnipeg and later a key figure in Columbus, now finds himself in a holding pattern with the Canadiens - and the clock is ticking ahead of the 2026 trade deadline.
Laine’s current season has been limited to just five games, with a lone assist and a -3 rating on the stat sheet. It’s a small sample size, but enough to raise eyebrows among fans and front offices alike. For a player known for his elite shot and power-play prowess, those numbers are a far cry from the impact he had just a season ago.
Let’s not forget: Laine was a major reason the Canadiens punched their ticket to the playoffs last year. He logged 20 goals and 13 assists in 52 games, with a staggering 15 of those goals coming on the power play.
That kind of production with the man advantage doesn’t just help - it changes games. Montreal’s special teams leaned heavily on Laine’s one-timer from the circle, and for stretches of the season, he looked like the pure sniper he was drafted to be back in 2016.
But now, the conversation has shifted. On February 3rd, GM Kent Hughes placed Samuel Blais on waivers - a move many interpreted as clearing a spot for Laine’s return to the lineup.
Instead, Laine remained out, even with a matchup looming against his former team, the Winnipeg Jets. That absence has only fueled speculation about his future in Montreal.
According to reports, the Canadiens are actively exploring trade options. The front office is reportedly willing to retain 50% of Laine’s salary and even attach a draft asset to move him - a clear sign they’re open to cutting ties before his contract expires.
One name that’s surfaced in the rumor mill is Andrew Mangiapane of the Edmonton Oilers, another player whose name has been floated as a potential trade deadline mover. A Laine-for-Mangiapane swap would be a classic change-of-scenery deal, with both players looking to rediscover their form in a new environment.
The debate among Habs fans is split. On one hand, Laine is still just 27 and brings a skill set that’s hard to find - size, a lethal shot, and a proven track record on the power play.
Supporters argue that a few more games could help him find his rhythm, especially if his injuries are finally behind him. There’s also the argument for extending him on a short-term deal, banking on a resurgence with a full, healthy season.
But there’s another side to this. Laine’s style - a high-skill, shoot-first winger - doesn’t always mesh with the grind-it-out identity of a third line, especially when he’s not scoring. Add in the injury concerns and limited 5-on-5 impact this season, and it’s fair to question whether he fits into the Canadiens’ long-term plans, particularly as they continue to build around a younger, faster core.
The decision facing Montreal isn’t an easy one. Do they hold out hope that Laine can recapture the form that made him a power-play weapon last season? Or do they cut bait now, retain salary, and sweeten the deal to get something back before his value dips further?
What’s clear is this: Laine’s future in Montreal is hanging in the balance. Whether he’s in the lineup tomorrow against Winnipeg or not, the Canadiens have a decision to make - one that could shape their roster well beyond this season.