Patrik Laine Leaving Montreal Canadiens

The writing is on the wall, Patrik Laine won't be re-signing with the Montreal Canadiens.

The former second-overall pick battled some injuries throughout this past season, but admitted to the media on Monday that he was healthy enough to play the last couple of weeks of the regular season and into the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but it was the team's decision to not dress the prolific goal scorer. Considering how much of a rough time the Habs had generating offense, it's shocking to hear Laine could have played.

The 6-foot-5 forward wasn't very thrilled with how his time in Montreal went over the past two seasons, as he only appeared in 57 games combined between two seasons. Laine scored 20 goals and 33 points last season in 52 games, and heading into the summer, will be one of the wild-card free-agent forwards for GM's to ponder.

I think I could have come back pretty early. But it’s just one of those things when you have surgeries and stuff, you don’t always feel 100%. I’ve been unfortunate that I’ve had plenty of those, so I kind of have experience with that. But I probably could have played pretty soon after New Year’s, but also you don’t want to rush anything and go to play too early and then you’ll take a step back and then it takes longer. So kind of wanted to be more and more cautious with that.

Laine was shopped ahead of the trade deadline, but due to his health concerns, there wasn't any takers. Considering he was available to play back in January, this has quickly become quite the bizarre story out of Montreal.

I’m just excited where the wind takes me next year. But I’m excited to see new opportunities and see where it goes. I’m not too worried about it right now. Just right now, take a little breather and relax, and then get back at it.

As far as potential free-agent destinations, don't be surprised to see the Carolina Hurricanes, Seattle Kraken, Winnipeg Jets, and Columbus Blue Jackets inquire into Laine's price tag. It's expected he signs a short-term incentive-laden contract given his last two campaigns.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images