Former Rangers GM Connected to Patrik Laine Trade

Gorton's Canadiens have shown interest in Laine since last season, with rumors intensifying after Laine's recent return from the NHL/NHLPA Players Assistance Program. Laine, a former 40-goal scorer, sought mental health treatment and has been out since January.

Laine's Current Situation

Laine played only 18 games for the Blue Jackets last season, tallying six goals and nine points before entering the program on January 28. Initially sidelined by a fractured clavicle in December, he opted for the program over returning to play. After missing the rest of the season, Laine requested a trade from Columbus during the offseason.

New Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell seeks a "hockey trade" for Laine, who has two years left on a contract with an $8.7 million AAV. Waddell desires more than just draft picks and prospects, aiming for a regular lineup player without retaining significant salary, a challenging task given most teams' limited cap space.

In an interview with Brian Hedger of the Columbus Post Dispatch, Waddell acknowledged the possibility of retaining some salary to facilitate a trade.

«We might end up eating some money. If I wanted to eat half, I could've traded him by now, but that's not my first choice,» Waddell said.

While the Rangers have a positional fit for Laine, the financial constraints make a deal difficult. However, other teams might be able to make it work.

The Canadiens aim to accelerate their rebuild, similar to the one Gorton managed with the Rangers. Montreal seeks a top-six forward to bolster their offense, which averaged 2.83 goals per game last season, ranking 26th in the NHL. Adding a six-time 20-goal scorer like Laine, who has topped 28 goals four times, is appealing.

The Canadiens might have traded for Laine earlier, but uncertainty around his return delayed potential moves. Likely, Gorton and his team would want to assess Laine's mental readiness before finalizing a trade.

While taking on Laine's full $8.7 million cap hit isn't ideal, the Canadiens could manage it once Carey Price and his $10.5 million AAV move to LTIR (long-term injured reserve). Laine, at 26, could be a valuable addition alongside young stars like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Juraj Slafkovsky.

Trade Possibilities

For Montreal and Columbus to strike a deal, Gorton might offer less if the Canadiens absorb all of Laine's salary. But for a "hockey deal," Columbus may prefer not to acquire veterans like Christian Dvorak or Joel Armia. Waddell could aim for younger talents like Alex Newhook, Josh Roy, or one of Montreal's promising defensemen if he retains some of Laine's salary.

Recent rumors suggest the Minnesota Wild as a potential destination for Laine. However, their tight cap situation would require creative maneuvers to secure the forward from the Rangers' Metropolitan Division rival.

The Canadiens have a clearer path to trade for the talented yet often-injured right wing. Gorton, known for bold trades with the Rangers, might make a significant move.