Free-Agent Patrik Laine Close To Signing, 2 Teams Named Finalists
The Detroit Red Wings and Los Angeles Kings have been the most active teams in trying to sign UFA Patrik Laine this week, per @makinenantti via the Kimanttia podcast 👀
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) October 3, 2026
Laine last played in an NHL game on October 16, 2025, before being sidelined for the remainder of last season… pic.twitter.com/Y61MmpLM8H
Laine is trying to find somewhere to hit the reset button on his career, after a dismal season with the Montreal Canadiens in 2025-26. Laine had core muscle surgery, was ready to return in January, but since Montreal was rolling, they didn't want to mess with line chemistry, and kept Laine in the press box.
Laine was skating in south Florida to train for this season, and early on in this summer, was being linked to the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning. Turns out both teams are no longer on the radar, and considered extreme long shots at this point.
For now, the Kings seem like the favorite. They need to add some punch up front, and could provide Laine a top-nine spot, and lots of time as the shooter on their second power-play unit.
At ~$850K-1m for 1yr, LAK should. LA ranked 2.77 GF/gm with a weak PP and only $1.8M in cap space. Laine scored 20 goals in 52 GP on 14 min in 24-25. Health is the whole bet. Is he cooked? Maybe, but low-risk high-reward. #GoKingsGo pic.twitter.com/vCkrL9prSX
— StatCrease (@StatCrease) October 3, 2026