Laine, a Finnish sensation, stands at 6 feet 5 inches and weighs 215 pounds. At 26 years old, he's racked up 388 points, including 204 goals, in 480 NHL games. Arpon Basu of The Athletic mentioned in his podcast what it might take to acquire Laine, and despite being one of the best goal scorers in the league, his injury history has likely lowered his trade value.
Canadiens GM Kent Hughes could get Laine and a 4th round pick at the upcoming NHL Draft for a 2024 5th round pick going to Columbus.
This deal would allow the Canadiens to move up one slot in the draft, possibly securing a player who might not be available at their original pick. Meanwhile, new GM Don Waddell and the Blue Jackets would drop just one spot and clear Laine's $8.7 million salary off their hands.
This proposal has the potential to make both teams happy, addressing Montreal's need for a top scorer and Columbus's desire to move Laine's contract. Let's see how things play out and if this fantasy becomes a reality.
