David Ettedgui, a former influential NHL agent, says the Montreal Canadiens are taking a close interest in Patrik Laine’s case.
“My information tells me that the CH is active in the Patrik Laine case,” Ettedgui said.
“There is certainly some gymnastics to be done, but let’s stay close to this issue.”
Patrik Laine, the 26-year-old goal scorer, was limited to 18 games last season with the Columbus Blue Jackets because of shoulder surgery.
Despite this, his talent comes out of his ears and his goal-scoring potential makes him an attractive target for several NHL teams.
Laine, who scored his first 100 NHL goals in just 179 games, is considered one of the league’s elite scorers.
Ettedgui stressed that the Montreal Canadiens will have to be creative to integrate Laine into their team while respecting the salary cap.
Laine needs a playmaking center to maximize his potential. Suzuki or Dach could be that sought-after center. If the Blue Jackets are willing to hold back some of Laine’s salary, that could facilitate a trade.
TSN’s Craig Button says it would be worth the risk for Montreal.
“What does he do as well as anyone? He scores goals,” said Button.
“He’s in Columbus. No center. Patrik Laine needs someone who’s going to get him the puck, right? If you put players in the right situation, I think a player can flourish and be successful. Laine with Suzuki or Dach would be a stellar fit.”
“Patrik is an elite goal scorer. How many elite goal scorers are there in the National Hockey League? Not that many. I’m talking elite, one of the best.”
The Montreal Canadiens have done their homework on Laine, who is under the care of the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. Kent Hughes has reportedly even contacted the program directly to see what the process is for the forward’s NHL recovery.
If they don’t sign a free agent in the coming days, it will definitely be worth keeping an eye on because perhaps they are saving their salary space with the goal of completing a trade with the Blue Jackets later this summer.
The fact that the CH has inquired about the recovery program says it all. Montreal wants Laine. Now we have to keep our fingers crossed…
