The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded forward Patrik Laine to the Montreal Canadiens, marking a significant roster shakeup as the NHL offseason gears up. In return, the Blue Jackets acquired defenseman Jordan Harris and a 2026 second-round draft pick. Notably, Columbus did not retain any of Laine's salary in the transaction.
Laine's move comes just over three seasons after he joined the Blue Jackets, having been traded from the Winnipeg Jets one game into the 2020-21 season. Originally drafted No. 2 overall by the Jets in 2016, Laine quickly established himself as a prolific goal scorer, netting 80 goals in his first two NHL seasons.
A Rollercoaster Tenure
Laine's time with the Blue Jackets has been a tumultuous journey, highlighted by moments of brilliance and significant challenges. Despite recording consecutive 20-goal seasons in 2021-22 and 2022-23, Laine faced several setbacks. He missed nine games early in the 2022-23 season due to a concussion and was sidelined for an additional three games in December of the same season.
In late January, Laine entered the NHL/NHL Players' Association Player Assistance Program. Before entering the program, he had recorded six goals and nine points in 18 games. These disruptions undoubtedly impacted both his performance and the team's overall dynamics.
Blue Jackets' Struggles
The Blue Jackets are coming off a dismal 2023-24 season, finishing with just 66 points, the worst record in the Eastern Conference, and the fourth fewest points in the NHL. Given this context, the trade signals a clear intent to rebuild and refocus the team's strategy.
General Manager Don Waddell's comments on the trade reflect this mindset. "We want players that want to be Blue Jackets and Patrik made it clear that he thought a change of scenery was best for him," Waddell said. He added, "We were able to acquire a good young player in Jordan Harris while maintaining financial flexibility in this deal which was very important to us. We wish Patrik all the best."
Canadiens' Prospects
For the Montreal Canadiens, acquiring Laine could be a significant boost as the franchise looks to improve after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. They finished the 2022-23 season with 68 points and improved marginally to 76 points in 2023-24.
With Laine's offensive prowess, the Canadiens are likely hoping he can help power their offense. Laine's current contract carries an annual value of $8.7 million and has two years remaining, making this a reasonably short-term commitment with the potential for substantial upside. Montreal's ability to absorb his entire salary without involving financial maneuvering suggests they are betting on Laine to reclaim his scoring touch and provide immediate impact.
Future Implications
Jordan Harris, the young defenseman acquired by Columbus, represents a key piece in the Blue Jackets' rebuilding efforts. At just 23, Harris has shown potential and could develop into a core player for the team. Additionally, the 2026 second-round pick adds another asset for future talent acquisition, part of a broader strategy to reshape the roster and return to contention.
For Laine, this trade offers a fresh start in a new environment, something both he and the Blue Jackets deemed necessary. His success in Montreal could hinge on his ability to stay healthy and recapture the form that made him one of the league's top young scorers just a few years ago.
As both teams look ahead to the new season, this trade could very well serve as a pivotal moment for their respective futures. Columbus's focus remains on constructing a robust, financially flexible roster, while Montreal aims to reignite its offensive firepower with Laine leading the charge.