Patrik Laine Trade Rumors: Could the Los Angeles Kings Be a Fit?
With the Olympic break officially over in the NHL, all General Managers (GMs) are now free to make trades as of February 22nd. Two transactions already took place today to kick things off, ten days before the trade deadline. Earlier this morning, the New York Islanders and the St. Louis Blues were the first to make a move, followed by a significant trade between the Colorado Avalanche and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes is actively seeking reinforcements for head coach Martin St. Louis to bolster the team for the remainder of the season and a potential playoff run. A key part of this strategy could involve trading the enigmatic forward, Patrik Laine. Laine is recovering from an injury and has been practicing with the regular team for weeks, indicating he’s nearing a return to the lineup and will need to be removed from injured reserve.
The Laine Dilemma for Montreal
However, Laine’s return would force the Canadiens’ management to cut one of their 23 regular players to make room in the lineup. Given his substantial salary and injury history, finding a trade partner isn’t expected to be easy. But could Hughes capitalize on the unfortunate injury to Los Angeles Kings forward Kevin Fiala, whose season is now over?
Swiss Habs initially proposed this possibility, citing a Finnish commentator. With Fiala’s $7.875 million cap hit being freed up, Kings GM Ken Holland would have the financial flexibility to absorb Laine’s contract. Holland previously acquired star forward Artemi Panarin to inject offensive firepower into his lineup, which is currently lacking.
Fiala’s Injury Changes the Landscape
The loss of a top-six forward has fueled speculation that Holland is looking for a replacement to allow Anze Kopitar to compete for the Stanley Cup one last time before potentially retiring. Today, Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, a well-respected NHL insider, weighed in on the growing rumors.
According to Friedman, the Kings hadn’t shown significant interest in Laine before Fiala’s injury, but the situation may now force them to consider the option. This presents an unexpected opportunity for the Canadiens’ GM. The question now is whether the Kings believe Laine can improve their roster for a playoff push.
The trade market is dynamic, and the injury to Fiala has undoubtedly shifted the landscape. The Canadiens may find a willing partner in Los Angeles, but it will depend on whether Holland believes the risk is worth the potential reward. Keep an eye on this developing story as the trade deadline approaches!
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