Canadiens Rumors: Update On Patrik Laine's Situation With Montreal

Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine skates with the puck during 2025 game.

The Montreal Canadiens are entering an important season for forward Patrik Laine, and the path ahead is looking murky. 

Entering the final year of his $8.7 million contract, Laine faces intense scrutiny after an up-and-down 2024-25 campaign. While he delivered 20 goals in just 53 games, 15 of them on the power play, his five-on-five struggles and injury concerns continue to raise questions. GM Kent Hughes isn’t under immediate pressure to make a move, but the longer Laine goes without an extension, the clearer it becomes that his time in Montreal may be limited.

Trade, Extension, or Walkaway? Canadiens Weigh Options

Laine remains one of the league’s best pure shooters, but staying healthy and contributing at even strength will determine whether he earns another big payday, especially with Montreal. The Canadiens have ample cap space beyond 2025-26, but Hughes may be hesitant to hand out term or a raise to a player who’s missed significant time and has become a power-play specialist. 

Trade speculation briefly surfaced this past spring, though management publicly dismissed it. Still, with Laine’s modified no-trade clause only blocking deals to 10 teams, Montreal could explore the market if talks stall.

Demidov Factor and Montreal’s Long-Term Vision

The arrival of top prospect Ivan Demidov adds another wrinkle. While Demidov and Laine could form a dangerous second-line duo, their fit, especially in terms of defensive responsibility, remains in question. Montreal may opt to shelter Demidov’s development by playing him away from Laine. 

If Laine underwhelms again, especially at even strength, expect Hughes to explore trade options before the deadline. But if Laine bounces back and Montreal contends, a short-term extension or deadline hold could be on the table. One thing is clear: the 2025-26 season will define whether Laine has a future in Montreal or is simply passing through.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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