Patrik Laine allegedly turned down team prior to trade to Montreal Canadiens

Unsurprisingly, GM of the Montreal Canadiens Kent Hughes wasn't the only general manager eyeing Patrik Laine. After all, we're talking about a highly skilled player who came at an unexpectedly low cost. Although the Canadiens were supposedly the only team willing to absorb Patrik Laine's entire salary without expecting the Blue Jackets to retain any portion, there were still other teams in the mix who were interested.

According to TVA Sports journalist Renaud Lavoie, Patrik Laine actually turned down another trade offer before he was sent to the Canadiens. This is great news for Habs fans, as it shows Patrik Laine really wanted to play for the city of Montreal.

While the report doesn't specify which team Patrik Laine declined, it's evident that he was set on playing for the Montreal Canadiens, which as a Habs fan must feel good, as many players in the past have avoided playing in Montreal due to all of the pressure that comes with it. He was determined to be with the Habs.

How could a player requesting a trade have so much leverage? Well, it's crucial to remember that Laine had a no-trade clause. He could have opted to waive that clause for a team other than Montreal, but he didn't.

In any case, fans are eagerly anticipating his arrival at training camp in a few weeks, and are thrilled to watch him suit up for the Canadiens this season, no doubt.

Patrik Laine is looking to rebound from last season, where he only played in 18 games, scoring six times and adding just three assists for nine points.

Source: Habs Fanatics
Patrik Laine reportedly refused a trade before being dealt to the Canadiens according to Renaud Lavoie

Source: Hockey-Reference
Patrik Laine Stats